March is National Kidney Month, observed annually to raise awareness about kidney disease. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a condition that affects around 35.5 million Americans, though many are unaware they even have it. This observance underscores the importance of prioritizing your kidney health, which includes understanding the risk factors, recognizing the value of early detection, and accessing effective treatments.
CKD occurs when the kidneys become damaged over time, preventing them from performing essential functions for our bodies, which include removing excess waste and helping to maintain healthy blood pressure. As the disease progresses, the risk of complications such as cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and kidney failure increases.
Fortunately, treatments exist that can slow the progression of the disease and help patients manage the condition successfully. For more than 20 years, UHS Nephrology has played a leading role in diagnosing and treating kidney disease in Greater Binghamton. The practice has seen tremendous growth in that time, expanding access to meet the rising demand for kidney care locally.
Today, the team at UHS Nephrology includes four board-certified nephrologists and four experienced nurse practitioners, serving patients at three convenient locations: UHS Nephrology Binghamton, UHS Nephrology Apalachin, and UHS Nephrology Norwich.
In honor of National Kidney Month, several patients have graciously shared their experiences with UHS Nephrology and the care that has supported them throughout their journeys.
Providing comprehensive care, close to home
Virginia Kipper of Binghamton, NY, has been a patient of UHS Nephrology for several years. When she required a kidney transplant, she was referred to Upstate Medical in Syracuse, NY and underwent a successful procedure in September 2024.
Ms. Kipper sees Mohammad Quasem, MD, at UHS Nephrology Binghamton for check-ups and to review the results of routine bloodwork to ensure her body is healthy and operating the way it should after the transplant. For Ms. Kipper, having nephrology care close to home means not having to regularly travel long distances for appointments. She values the convenience—and the quality—of having expert care nearby.
“Dr. Quasem is one of the best. He’s upfront, easy to talk to, and keeps you informed,” Ms. Kipper said. “The office staff have been just as wonderful. When I have a question, they’re there to answer it. I can’t say enough about them.”
UHS Nephrology manages all aspects of kidney care, except for transplants. Most patients who require a transplant are referred to Upstate Medical and then continue their care with UHS for ongoing follow-up.
“We follow patients through every step of their journey with kidney treatment,” Dr. Quasem shared. “We have everything a kidney patient needs. There is no need to go anywhere other than UHS Nephrology.”
Meeting patients where they are
JoAnn Carter of Glen Aubrey, NY, was the recipient of a kidney transplant from her brother, Dale, when she was just 20 years old. She has lived a healthy, hard-working life for 47 years since, which has included accomplishments such as building five houses with her husband, Steve.
Following complications from a parathyroid procedure several years ago, JoAnn experienced partial kidney failure. UHS Nephrology has been there to provide the excellent kidney care she needs, including dialysis – a treatment for kidney disease that filters waste and excess fluid from the body.
In December of 2024, JoAnn transitioned to home dialysis with the support of UHS’ partner, Fresenius Kidney Care. Thanks to the team at Fresenius, including her nurse, Sara, she and Steve learned how to use the machines and confidently manage treatment at home.
For JoAnn, receiving dialysis at home has given her more time in her days to do the things she enjoys. “When I had to go into the clinic for my dialysis three or four days a week, I would come home exhausted,” JoAnn shared. “Now, I do my dialysis four times a week in the evening. During the day, I feel good. I can visit friends and family, and enjoy our home and pets.”
The number of UHS patients choosing home dialysis has more than doubled in the last twenty years. As more patients are opting for home-based care over time, UHS Nephrology has remained dedicated to meeting patients where they are, ensuring the highest level of care every time.
JoAnn continues to see Dr. Quasem monthly for in-person check-ups. She is also grateful for the level of care she’s received from her nurses, including Emily, who have gone above and beyond in their support.
Personalized care tailored to your needs
Michael Morosi of Binghamton, NY, was brought to the hospital over a decade ago when blood tests revealed that he was experiencing kidney failure. At the time, he was able to recover with the right treatment, but a complicated medical history and multiple co-occurring illnesses left him with an uncertain prognosis.
Mr. Morosi credits UHS Nephrology with expertly managing his condition and helping him achieve far better outcomes than expected. “Dr. Quasem and the team have managed my heart, kidney, and blood pressure in a novel way, so that my disease is progressing much slower than originally anticipated,” he shared.
UHS Nephrology has also played a crucial role in coordinating the delivery of care with Mr. Morosi’s other providers. That level of communication has been critical to managing his case.
“I was once in the emergency room, and the physician wanted to give me a medication I knew wouldn’t react well with my kidneys,” Mr. Morosi shared. “At my request, they called UHS Nephrology, and they got back to us within an hour. Dr. Quasem spoke with the physician, and ensured they provided a medication that was safe for me.”
Mr. Morosi is thankful for the level of dedication from his providers at UHS Nephrology, which has gone a long way giving him peace of mind. “I know UHS Nephrology has my back,” Mr. Morosi said. “My experience with them couldn’t be more positive.”
Driven by dedication and set apart by experience, UHS Nephrology remains a trusted source of expert, compassionate kidney care that is always close to home. To learn more about UHS Nephrology or schedule an appointment today, click here.