H.R. 1518 – The New Era Act
The New Era of Preventing End-Stage Kidney Disease Act (H.R. 1518) is a bipartisan bill focused on stopping kidney disease before it reaches its most severe stage. It proposes creating Centers of Excellence dedicated to rare kidney disease research, expanding early testing and genetic screening, increasing public and provider education, and improving access to care for underserved communities. By investing in earlier diagnosis, better treatment options, and more trained nephrologists, this bill aims to reduce the need for dialysis and kidney transplants, especially among high-risk groups. It’s about giving kidney warriors a fighting chance, before it's too late.
H.R. 1518 Why we need your support
Kidney disease doesn’t wait and neither should we. H.R. 1518 is a life-saving step toward preventing kidney failure before it starts, especially for patients battling rare kidney diseases who are too often overlooked. Early testing, research and education save lives. Right now, too many people fall through the cracks due to delayed diagnosis, limited access to specialists, and lack of awareness. This bill ensures that every person, regardless of ZIP code, race, or income, has a fair shot at early detection, proper treatment, and a longer, healthier life. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, veteran, or advocate, your voice matters. Supporting this bill is supporting the future of kidney care in America.
1. It’s Not About “Freebies” It’s About Early Detection
What it does: The bill promotes routine urine tests and genetic screenings to catch kidney disease early, before symptoms show.
Why some may hesitate: People might think this means expensive, unnecessary testing for everyone.
The truth: Early testing is cost-effective. Catching kidney disease early prevents costly treatments like dialysis or transplants down the road. It's like changing your oil to avoid replacing your whole engine.
2. It Doesn’t Fund Waste It Funds Research Where None Exists
What it does: The bill establishes Centers of Excellence to focus on rare kidney diseases, which are severely under-researched.
Why some may hesitate: Skeptics may argue this is just more government spending.
The truth: Rare kidney diseases are devastating and often go misdiagnosed. Better research leads to better care and fewer hospitalizations. These centers would be nonprofit and run through NIH, ensuring accountability and medical focus, not political waste.
3. It’s Not Just About Kidneys It’s About Health Equity
What it does: This bill ensures underserved and minority communities get access to the same quality testing, specialists, and care.
Why some may hesitate: Some may fear this is preferential treatment.
The truth: This isn’t about giving more to some, it’s about leveling the playing field. Certain populations (especially Black Americans with the APOL1 gene) are more at risk. Providing fair access helps everyone by reducing long-term health system costs.
4. It Strengthens the Workforce, It Doesn’t Grow Government
What it does: H.R. 1518 expands nephrology training and provider education to prepare more doctors for early detection and specialized care.
Why some may hesitate: Some may confuse this with bloated bureaucracy or unnecessary training programs.
The truth: This trains existing and future providers, especially in rural or high-risk areas. More trained doctors = fewer missed diagnoses = less cost in emergency care.