The resolution highlights the significant public health issue of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and its strong association with cardiovascular disease, which is the leading cause of death in the United States. It notes that approximately 35.5 million adults are affected by CKD, with many unaware of their condition. The resolution emphasizes the financial burden of CKD on Medicare and Medicaid, as well as the increased healthcare costs associated with patients suffering from both CKD and heart failure. It also points out the challenges faced by individuals in rural areas in accessing timely diagnosis and care, which can exacerbate health outcomes.
In response to these issues, the resolution encourages the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services to implement targeted screening approaches for at-risk populations, particularly in underserved areas. It advocates for public-private partnerships to educate both patients and healthcare providers on the importance of specific screenings that can detect early signs of kidney damage. Additionally, it calls on the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to enhance access to comprehensive cardiovascular-kidney screenings for at-risk populations, ensuring that these screenings lead to improved clinical care through effective quality measurement and incentives.