Health Innovation Networks lead national roll out of new kidney care service

All 15 health innovation networks across England are working together to roll out a successful care model to improve kidney care.

The LUCID – Connecting kidney care programme improves patient outcomes through early detection of chronic kidney disease (CKD), early intervention and optimisation, while maximising productivity and value for money.

Significant potential for patients and the NHS

An economic analysis commissioned by the Health Innovation Network highlights the potential benefits that could be achieved by rolling out the programme across England:

• £69.4 million potential benefits in year one
• £334.9 million potential benefits over five years
• Over five years, an estimated £3.25 return for every £1 invested.

Connecting kidney care across Kent, Surrey and Sussex

In Kent, Surrey and Sussex, we are working with Primary Care Networks (PCNs) to develop working relationships with secondary care specialists.

Amelia Palmer, Programme Manager, Health Innovation KSS said: “Chronic Kidney Disease is often ‘silent’ in its early stages, going undetected until it requires more intensive treatment and has a greater impact on people’s lives. Yet early diagnosis and treatment can be relatively straightforward with the right processes in place. Through LUCID, we’re bringing primary and secondary care closer together to identify people sooner and improve outcomes.”

The LUCID model bridges the gap between primary and secondary care by integrating management of CKD. It has four main principles:

• LUCID multi-disciplinary team meetings (MDTs) are established, ensuring a more joined-up approach between hospital and GP practice care teams.
• Steps are put in place to identify patients more at risk of kidney disease.
• Training is provided for clinicians, and patients are better informed and able to manage their care.
• Ongoing healthcare management is optimised.

The growing impact of kidney disease

In the UK, more than 3 million people are living with the most severe stages of kidney disease, and this number is rising rapidly. Across Kent, Surrey and Sussex, it is estimated more than 550,000 people are living with kidney disease, with 45% at stages 3–5 (Kidney Research UK Health Economics Report).

Kidney disease also significantly increases the risk of heart attack and stroke, placing further pressure on individuals and health services. The annual economic burden of kidney disease in the UK is estimated at £7 billion, including £6.4 billion in direct NHS costs, equivalent to around 3.2% of NHS budgets (Kidney Research UK Health Economics Report). In Kent, Surrey and Sussex alone, the annual economic burden is more than £500 million.

Find out more

For more information visit:

The Health Innovation Network programme page

Health Innovation KSS programme page