The Federation of Prefectural Societies of Dialysis Physicians, the predecessor of the Japanese Association of Dialysis Physicians, was established on April 15, 1979, as a voluntary organization consisting of prefectural dialysis physicians associations. Since its inception, it has been engaged in various activities, including research on Japan's dialysis medical system and studies on the safety of dialysis therapy. Subsequently, under the guidance and advice from the Ministry of Health and other relevant authorities, the federation reviewed its activities and was renamed the Japanese Association of Dialysis Physicians on June 15, 1985. Since then, it has accumulated achievements in its activities.
The history of dialysis medicine in Japan can be divided into three phases: the first phase up to 1972 marked by the application of welfare medical care, the second phase up to 1980 characterized by the rapid proliferation of dialysis facilities, and the current third phase, where it is necessary to implement appropriate and rational dialysis medical care amidst changing socio-economic conditions. The life-prolonging effect of dialysis therapy has become increasingly certain, and as this therapy has become more widely adopted, the number of dialysis patients continues to grow. Furthermore, with the increase in long-term treatment patients, new measures against complications are required.
Kidney failure medical care must be promoted comprehensively, integrating the prevention of kidney failure and the suppression of progression to end-stage kidney disease requiring dialysis therapyand kidney transplantation. The impairment of any of these aspects would have significant medical and social damages. Considering the current state and medical trends in Japan, medical professionals engaging in dialysis therapy must make earnest efforts in preventive kidney failure medicine and actively participate in the promotion of kidney transplantation. Without such efforts and activities, the stability and improvement of dialysis medical care cannot be expected.
Dialysis medical care itself is not yet complete; there is still a need for progress in the safety including biocompatibility of dialysis materials, the development of more useful new technologies and drugs, the promotion of labor-saving measures in dialysis , the establishment of regional dialysis communication l systems, the introduction of information network systems for advanced kidney failure-related information such as patient status and kidney transplantation concern in case of patients‘ introduction to other facilities. Additionally, to promote comprehensive kidney failure medical care, ongoing and systematic educational activities for dialysis medical professionals covering all aspects of kidney disease treatment are necessary.
Recognizing these points, the Japanese Association of Dialysis Physicians has decided to establish an incorporated association to primarily focus on:
- Case studies and other research to ensure the proper implementation of the introduction and continuation of adequate dialysis therapy.
- Education and training of medical professionals regarding dialysis therapy.
- Research and support to improve the safety and effectiveness of dialysis therapy.
- Research and support to secure medical care for kidney failure patients with complications.
- Cooperation with national and local government activities to promote measures against kidney failure, including prevention and kidney transplantation.
Under government guidance and with the cooperation of various medical and healthcare-related organizations, the Association is determined to contribute to the improvement of its members' qualifications and the enhancement of public health and welfare.