When to Refer to a Nephrologist?

Reasons to refer for patient safety, adapted from the National Kidney Foundation:

Refer by CKD criteria:

1. Marker of kidney damage (one or more)
2. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 mL/min
3. (mandatory < 30mL/min)
4. Radiographic or symptomatic abnormality of kidney structure
5. Dysfunction persisting >3 mos

Refer by CKD risk factors:

1. Diabetes > 5 years
2. Hypertension > 5 years or difficult to control
3. Family history of kidney disease
4. Age > 60 years (kidney function declines with age)
5. Frequent usage of NSAIDs or nephrotoxic medications/drugs
6. History of AKI (acute kidney injury)

Altitude Kidney Health is a nephrology practicefounded in 2018 with a goal to decrease the barriers to kidney care for all residents of the greater Rocky Mountain region. AKH has offices in Denver and Frisco, CO, and is available Monday-Friday for consult via in-person and telehealth video visit—for providers & patients.

​We are happy to co-manage or provide a second opinion. Please reach us using our contact info below or on-demand video consult.

​Printable PDF of "When to refer to a nephrologist."