Hemodialysis uses a machine to clean your blood. During treatment, your blood travels from your body, through the dialysis machine, and back to your body. While it is in the machine, your blood passed through a special filter (called a dialyzer), which removes waste and fluid.

In-center hemodialysis is the most common treatment for kidney failure. This is done at a dialysis center. Most people who do in-center hemodialysis will have three treatments per week, with each treatment lasting between three to five hours. If you choose to do in-center hemodialysis, you will work with your dialysis center to schedule appointments.

At home hemodialysis (HHD) is the modality of hemodialysis done in the home. HHD patients have care partners who go through home dialysis training and provide assistance during treatments. Your care partner can be your spouse, a family member, a friend or a hired caregiver. This person contributes to your care every day, providing physical and emotional support.