| [ Summary ] |
In order to provide safe, high quality hemodialysis treatment, appropriate official regulation is important. The provision of initial certification and maintenance of facilities, equipment, dialysates, and human resource quality is essential. However, the provision of dialysis differes from country to country. Treatment approval involves evaluation of whether certain criteria are met at the time of establishment. Continued accreditation involves regular evaluation and recertification after specified periods of time. Germany and Singapore follow their approval systems, while Taiwan and Hong Kong follow their own accreditation systems. The United States has adopted both systems, while Japan and Korea apply a system of close self-regulation. A number of standards providing requirements for hemodialysis units, equipment, water purification, physicians, nursing staffs, medical engineers, and quality management are required in Japan. |