Dialysis in Oahu - how easy is to organise, locations, cost

Question

Just starting to consider going to Hawaii on vacation later this year.

My husband is on dialysis. I have a few questions please for anyone who has already done this. My husband tried contacting a few centers last time we were considering going, but got no response.

Which clinics/centers have people used?

Where were they located?

How far ahead did you have to book?

How long did you use the service for?

What was the cost please?

Thank you in advance

Answer

It’s great that you're considering a trip to Oahu, but I understand that organizing dialysis while traveling can be a bit challenging. Fortunately, there are several dialysis centers on Oahu that cater to travelers, and I can provide some insights based on others’ experiences.

When planning dialysis treatments in Hawaii, it’s important to book well in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak tourist seasons. It can take some time to get a response, so I recommend reaching out as early as possible, ideally 1-2 months before your trip. Some centers may also require a referral from your husband's current nephrologist or dialysis provider.

Here are a few dialysis centers in Oahu that people have used:

DaVita Dialysis - DaVita has multiple locations on Oahu, including in Honolulu, which is a central area for most tourists. They are one of the largest dialysis providers in the U.S. and generally have good experience with travelers. You can book treatments at least a month in advance, and they are usually responsive once they know you're traveling.
Fresenius Kidney Care - Another well-known dialysis provider, with several locations in Oahu, including Honolulu and the West Oahu area. Like DaVita, Fresenius has a solid reputation for accommodating travelers and is a good option if you're looking for a large provider with a consistent network.
Queen’s Medical Center Dialysis - Located in Honolulu, this hospital-based dialysis unit is often used by travelers. It’s part of a larger medical system, so if your husband requires any additional care, it’s a good backup option. However, booking here can sometimes be more complicated due to the hospital setting, so advance planning is crucial.
Hawaii Dialysis - A smaller, local provider, but they have good reviews from people who’ve traveled to Oahu for dialysis. This clinic is in Honolulu, which is convenient for most visitors, though availability may be limited during busy times, so early booking is recommended.

As for how long to book in advance, it’s typically recommended to contact the clinics at least 4-6 weeks prior to your visit to ensure availability, especially during busy seasons like holidays. Some people have found that booking several months in advance can give you the best chance of getting a spot on your preferred dates. If you plan on staying for a longer time, you might need to arrange for treatments throughout your stay, so make sure you discuss the duration of your trip with the clinic.

Costs for dialysis can vary widely depending on the clinic, your husband's insurance coverage, and the number of sessions required. On average, travelers report costs ranging from $250 to $500 per treatment session, but this can go higher depending on the facility and whether additional services (e.g., transportation, extra support) are needed. Some centers may also require a deposit upfront, especially for tourists. Make sure to contact the clinics directly to get specific pricing and ask about insurance coverage if applicable.

In addition to dialysis, many people also recommend confirming if the clinic offers transportation services or if you need to arrange for your own transportation to and from the center. Some visitors have found it helpful to stay in areas close to the dialysis clinics, such as Waikiki, for convenience.

Overall, with a little planning, it is definitely possible to enjoy your time in Oahu while ensuring that your husband receives his treatments. I recommend reaching out to the clinics soon to secure your appointments and get all the details you need for a smooth trip. Safe travels!

Dialysis in Oahu - how easy is to organise, locations, cost

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