#United States #Boston #National Kidney Foundation #Carol Mattix Award #Jennifer Kortyna

National Kidney Foundation Honors Jennifer Kortyna with Carol Mattix Award

In an exciting development for the field of nephrology, the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) has announced that it will present the distinguished Carol Mattix Award to Jennifer Kortyna, a Clinical Nurse Specialist at the University of Wisconsin Health. This significant recognition will take place during the NKF Spring Clinical Meetings scheduled for April 9-13 in Boston.

The Carol Mattix Award holds great importance within the nephrology community as it recognizes those whose work significantly enhances the lives of kidney disease patients. Each year, NKF evaluates the contributions of hundreds of nephrology specialists, selecting individuals who best exemplify the foundation’s mission to promote education, advocacy, and positive change in the field. This acknowledgment is particularly profound given that over 35 million adults in the U.S. face chronic kidney disease, with many remaining unaware of their condition.

Jennifer's journey into nephrology began as a nursing student back in 1990, when an eye-opening experience at a hemodialysis center revealed to her the struggles kidney patients endure. This initial encounter propelled her into a career aimed at advocating for these individuals. "These people are in need of advocates, and there are so many opportunities to help; it feels good to know you can make a difference," she shared.

Throughout her career, Kortyna has played a pivotal role in launching an urgent peritoneal dialysis program, along with educational initiatives designed to empower patients. She firmly believes in providing patients with the tools and knowledge to make informed decisions about their treatment options. Her passion for improving kidney care is reflected in her collaborations with outpatient units, ensuring a seamless transition for patients moving from hospital care back to community support.

Dr. Kirk Campbell, the President of the National Kidney Foundation, remarked, "Today, we celebrate the dedication and compassion that truly define nephrology nursing. Ms. Kortyna exemplifies the highest standards of care, demonstrating unwavering commitment to her patients and the broader community." This sentiment underscores the immense impact Kortyna has had through her work.

Bolstered by her extensive experience and leadership roles—including serving as a Clinical Educator and an active member of the American Nephrology Nurses Association—Jennifer is a beacon of hope within her community. Her efforts extend beyond individual patient care; she is actively involved in enhancing educational resources and local NKF symposia, broadening access to crucial information and support.

Currently, Kortyna is championing initiatives that better serve individuals seeking dialysis treatment, showcasing her commitment to tailoring care to meet patient needs. "Working to support their health has brought me great joy," she stated, reflecting on her journey as a nurse in nephrology.

The NKF Spring Clinical Meetings have been a cornerstone for nephrology professionals for over three decades, focusing on the latest advancements in nephrology practice while facilitating networking and research presentations. This year promises to be particularly vibrant as it seeks to transform healthcare delivery, directly benefiting patient outcomes and interprofessional collaboration.

Attending these meetings not only presents an opportunity for professionals to refine their skills but also serves as a platform for sharing knowledge and strategies for enhancing kidney care across the nation.

As the number of individuals with chronic kidney disease continues to rise, the significance of events like the NKF Spring Clinical Meetings—and the recognition of passionate professionals like Jennifer Kortyna—cannot be overstated. These initiatives pave the way toward a future where kidney disease management and treatment options are continually improved. This celebration of dedication and excellence not only honors individual achievements but aims to inspire the entire nephrology field to strive for better patient outcomes and quality of care.