Table 1 Dialysis models of care in the Northern Territory

DxMoC1 Urban staffed service (Hub and non-hub)

Both services provide maintenance haemodialysis; Hub service also supports pre-dialysis care and training and support for self-care therapies.

Larger facilities in urban areas; default service when others at capacity; for complex patient issues.

No criteria: all patients commence treatment here while waiting training or space in more remote unit.

DxMoC2 Rural staffed service

Maintenance haemodialysis; some support for self-care patients. 350-500 km from hub by road.

Smaller more distant facilities; often co-located with local hospitals to access support services.

Criteria: stable patients adhering to treatment; usually a waiting list.

DxMoC3 Remote staffed service (Government)

Maintenance haemodialysis; some support for self-care patients. 80 km by air from hub

Small units very distant from hub.

Criteria: patients clinically well, physically mobile, adherent with treatment. Issues with local recruitment. FIFO staff model

DxMoC4 Remote staffed services (Purple House)

Maintenance dialysis in home community with social supports. 80 – 1000 km from hub service

Aboriginal owned and community driven services; small units in remote areas; permanent and respite services to select (local) patients.

Criteria: Patient acceptance criteria less restrictive as more support services available. Rotating staff model

DxMoC5 Self-care dialysis

Training and support for self-care dialysis. Modalities include haemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.

Very small dedicated multi-user facilities established for self-care haemodialysis in remote areas.

Peritoneal dialysis attended at home.

Criteria: clinically stable, deemed competent and safe to deliver own care. Maintenance of equipment and facilities and assistance with in-community deliveries can be a challenge.