Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Program

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Good kidney health plays a key role in protecting your heart, metabolism, and overall well-being.

Our program is designed to support you in maintaining and improving your kidney function. The information below outlines the steps we’ll take together to help you stay healthy and prevent your CKD from progressing.

First, we’ll highlight why addressing CKD early is so important—including the health risks of untreated kidney damage.

Second, we’ll explain two of the key lab markers used to monitor your kidneys: the albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)—what they mean and why they matter.

Third, we’ll go over the most common lab tests related to kidney health, so you understand what’s being checked and how often.

Finally, we’ll share information about your CKD targets: what your numbers should look like, why hitting those targets matters, and how we can help you get there.

Importance

Monitoring Your Kidneys

Lab Tests

Targets

Why This CKD Program Matters

Chronic kidney disease often develops slowly and without symptoms—but even mild kidney damage can increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure over time. CKD also makes it harder to manage other conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes.

By understanding your kidney function and catching any problems early, you have a better chance of preventing serious complications. That’s why monitoring and protecting your kidneys is such a key part of your CKM health.

Understanding Your ACR and eGFR

Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio (ACR)

This urine test checks for protein (albumin) in your urine.

Why it matters: Healthy kidneys usually don’t leak protein. If protein is present, it’s an early sign of kidney damage—even if your blood work looks normal.

Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR)

This blood test estimates how well your kidneys are filtering waste.

Why it matters: A lower eGFR means your kidneys aren’t working as well. Tracking eGFR over time helps us detect changes before symptoms appear.

Together, these two tests give us the clearest picture of your kidney function.

Maintaining your ACR and eGFR within recommended ranges is essential for managing CKD and reducing the risk of complications.

What You Should Know

Targets for kidney health depend on your overall condition, age, and whether you have other conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.
Tracking your eGFR and ACR levels over time helps you and your healthcare team understand how well your kidneys are working and whether your treatment plan is on track.
It’s normal for values to shift a little between tests. What matters most is watching for patterns or changes over time.
If your results are consistently outside the recommended range, your care plan may need adjusting. Your healthcare provider will work with you to make the right changes.

Why Targets Matter

Staying within your kidney health targets can:

Slow the progression of chronic kidney disease
Lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure
Help prevent complications like fluid retention, anemia, and bone problems
Support your energy, appetite, and overall well-being

Keeping your kidneys healthy helps protect your entire body. Even small improvements in your numbers can make a big difference over time.

For More Information on CKD

Urine Test

Checks for protein (albumin) in your urine—an early sign of kidney damage.

Blood Tests

Serum Creatinine & eGFR: Measure how well your kidneys filter waste.

Urea (BUN): Indicates waste buildup if kidneys aren’t working well.

Electrolytes: Show how kidneys balance minerals like sodium and potassium.

Hemoglobin: Checks for anemia, common in kidney disease.

Phosphorus and Calcium: Monitored to protect bones and heart in later stages.

These tests help catch problems early, track your kidney health, and guide your care plan. Your results will be reviewed regularly and explained clearly.