Home Dialysis Treatment in Burlingame, Daly City, and San Mateo County | Dr. Leena Joshi, MD
Last reviewed by Dr. Leena Joshi, MD on June 2026
Home dialysis is a kidney treatment that patients can perform at their own residence instead of traveling to a dialysis center. Dr. Leena Joshi helps patients in Burlingame, Daly City, and San Mateo County determine if home dialysis is appropriate for their kidney disease. Dr. Joshi provides comprehensive training, ongoing monitoring, and personalized care plans to support patients who choose peritoneal dialysis or home hemodialysis as their treatment option.
What is home dialysis?
Home dialysis is a treatment for kidney failure that patients can do in their own home. When kidneys stop working properly, dialysis removes waste products and extra fluid from the blood. There are two main types of home dialysis. Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of the abdomen to filter blood, with fluid going in and out through a catheter. Home hemodialysis uses a machine to clean the blood, similar to what happens at a dialysis center but in the comfort of home. Many patients prefer home dialysis because it offers more flexibility with scheduling and can fit better into daily life. Dr. Joshi works with patients in San Mateo County to evaluate which type of dialysis may work best for their lifestyle and medical needs.
Signs and symptoms
Patients who may benefit from home dialysis often experience symptoms of advanced kidney disease, including:
- Severe fatigue and weakness that interferes with daily activities
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or face from fluid retention
- Shortness of breath due to fluid buildup in the lungs
- Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
- Difficulty concentrating or confusion
- Persistent itching throughout the body
- Changes in urination patterns or decreased urine output
How Dr. Joshi manages home dialysis
Dr. Joshi provides comprehensive support for patients considering home dialysis in Burlingame, Daly City, and San Mateo County. The process begins with a thorough evaluation to determine if home dialysis is medically appropriate and if the patient has adequate support at home. Dr. Joshi discusses both peritoneal dialysis and home hemodialysis options, explaining the benefits and requirements of each approach. For patients who choose home dialysis, Dr. Joshi coordinates training programs where patients and their care partners learn proper techniques in a safe, supervised environment. Training typically takes several weeks and covers equipment operation, infection prevention, and troubleshooting common issues. Dr. Joshi monitors patients closely through regular laboratory tests, telehealth visits, and in-office appointments to adjust treatment as needed. Dr. Joshi also works with a multidisciplinary team including dialysis nurses, dietitians, and social workers to provide comprehensive kidney care. Patients receive 24-hour support access for questions or concerns that may arise during home treatment.
When to see a nephrologist for home dialysis
Dr. Joshi recommends scheduling a consultation if you experience:
- Chronic kidney disease that has progressed to stage 4 or 5
- Your current nephrologist has mentioned you may need dialysis soon
- You want to explore dialysis options before kidney function declines further
- You are currently doing in-center dialysis but want more flexibility
- You have questions about whether home dialysis is right for your situation
Frequently asked questions
Is home dialysis safe?
Yes, home dialysis can be very safe when patients receive proper training and follow protocols carefully. Dr. Joshi ensures patients are thoroughly prepared before starting home treatment and provides ongoing monitoring to maintain safety and treatment effectiveness.
How long does home dialysis take each day?
The time commitment varies by type. Peritoneal dialysis exchanges may take 30 minutes several times daily, or patients can use a machine overnight. Home hemodialysis typically requires three to six sessions per week, lasting two to four hours each, depending on the prescribed schedule.
Can anyone do home dialysis in San Mateo County?
Most patients with kidney failure can learn home dialysis, but it requires motivation, adequate vision and dexterity, and a clean space at home. Dr. Joshi evaluates each patient individually to determine if home dialysis is appropriate for their medical condition and living situation.
Does insurance cover home dialysis?
Medicare and most private insurance plans cover home dialysis, including equipment, supplies, and training. Dr. Joshi’s office works with insurance providers to help patients understand their coverage and any out-of-pocket costs they may have.
What if I need help during home dialysis?
Dr. Joshi provides patients with 24-hour access to support staff who can answer questions or help troubleshoot problems. Many patients also train a family member or friend to assist with treatments and provide backup support when needed.
Can I travel while on home dialysis?
Yes, home dialysis often makes travel easier than in-center dialysis. Peritoneal dialysis supplies can be shipped to destinations, and home hemodialysis patients may arrange temporary in-center treatments. Dr. Joshi helps patients plan for travel and coordinates care as needed.
Dr. Leena Joshi, MD offers home dialysis treatment at two convenient locations: 1750 El Camino Real Suite 301, Burlingame and 1800 Sullivan Ave Suite 507, Daly City. To learn more about home dialysis options or to schedule a consultation, call (650) 355-5551.
This page is for general education and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your physician about your specific situation.
Medically reviewed by Leena Joshi, MD.