Outcomes among dialysis patients vary considerably internationally and across regions within the United States.

The Dialysis Outcomes and Practice Patterns Study (DOPPS) is an on-going observational study of hemodialysis patients in twelve countries, seeking to identify dialysis practices that contribute to improved mortality rates, hospitalization rates, health related quality of life, and vascular access outcomes.

The DOPPS is coordinated by research scientists and staff of the University Renal Research and Education Association (URREA) and is supported by scientific grants from Amgen and Kirin without restrictions on publications.