Learn about the process, requirements, and benefits of becoming a living organ donor, and how your gift can help save lives for those waiting for a transplant.
For questions related to our Transplant Coordination process, contact our Transplant Coordinators at 630-685-5696 or by clicking the button below to submit your question.
Once a patient is evaluated and deemed a candidate by the transplant center, they will be placed on the wait list. The NANI Transplant Coordinator will continue to track each patient’s status during the wait list and post-transplant periods. For questions related to our Transplant Coordination process, contact our Transplant Coordinators at 630-685-5696 or by clicking here to schedule an appointment.
Transplant Coach offers insights into wait times for receiving transplants amongst the transplant centers, nationwide.
Click the icon to begin our screening form. A Transplant Coordinator will then contact you within 5 business days.
Congratulations! After a successful kidney transplant surgery, the patient will remain in the care of the transplant center for at least the first year following surgery. The NANI Transplant Coordinator will continue to serve as a contact for the patient and will inform the NANI Clinician of the successful transplant. The patient's NANI Clinician will plan to see the patient back in their office approximately 6 months – 1 year after the transplant surgery.
We have established partnerships with renowned transplant centers across Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Ohio, Wisconsin, and New Jersey to ensure that our patients have access to the highest quality transplant services.
NANI’s Transplant Coordination team works closely with renowned transplant centers located within proximity to our patients. Click on each tab below to see a list of these transplant centers in each state.
Chicago Metropolitan Area
Central Illinois
Chicago Metropolitan Area
Central Illinois
Living kidney donation is when a healthy person donates a kidney while they are alive, commonly referred to as a living donor. Living kidney donation has many benefits for a kidney transplant recipient. Learn more using the links below.
Learn about the process, requirements, and benefits of becoming a living organ donor, and how your gift can help save lives for those waiting for a transplant.
Find out if you’re eligible to become an organ donor. Get information about the requirements, restrictions, and factors that may affect your ability to donate.
This program allows living donors the convenience of donating when they are ready and ensures their intended recipient receives the best organ match at the time needed.
Donating a kidney provides the gift of life. Experts at Mayo Clinic explain what becoming a living kidney donor involves, the risks and recovery along with how it can benefit the recipient.
A kidney transplant is a life-changing treatment option for individuals with advanced or end-stage kidney disease. By replacing a failed kidney with a healthy donor kidney, transplantation can restore many critical kidney functions and significantly improve quality of life. Kidney transplants reduce reliance on dialysis and offer long-term health benefits for eligible patients. Nephrology Associates of Northern Illinois and Indiana (NANI) provides comprehensive kidney transplant evaluation, preparation, and post-transplant care for patients in Berwyn, Illinois; North Chicago, Illinois; Bergen, New Jersey; and additional locations throughout Illinois, New Jersey, and Indiana. Our nephrology specialists work closely with transplant centers to ensure seamless, coordinated care before and after transplantation.
Patients with advanced kidney disease may be considered for transplant when kidney function declines significantly or dialysis becomes necessary. Early evaluation allows for better planning and improved outcomes.
Kidney transplants are considered the gold standard treatment for eligible patients with end-stage kidney disease because they offer improved survival and quality of life compared to long-term dialysis. A functioning transplanted kidney can perform essential filtration and regulatory tasks more effectively than dialysis alone. Transplantation reduces dietary and fluid restrictions, allowing patients greater flexibility and independence. It also lowers the risk of cardiovascular complications commonly associated with prolonged dialysis. Early referral for transplant evaluation increases the likelihood of successful outcomes and shorter wait times. For healthcare providers, transplant planning enables smoother transitions from dialysis to long-term kidney replacement. At NANI, transplant care focuses on optimizing patient readiness and long-term success.
Kidney transplant care at Nephrology Associates of Northern Illinois and Indiana follows a detailed and patient-centered process to ensure safety, eligibility, and long-term success.
Preventing complications after kidney transplantation requires diligent medical follow-up and patient adherence. Immunosuppressive medications must be taken exactly as prescribed to prevent organ rejection. Regular lab testing is essential for monitoring kidney function and detecting early signs of infection or rejection. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle supports long-term graft survival and overall wellness. Infection prevention is especially important due to immune system suppression. Blood pressure and blood sugar control play a major role in protecting the transplanted kidney. At NANI, patient education and proactive monitoring are central to preventing complications and ensuring transplant longevity.
The outlook for patients who receive a kidney transplant is highly favorable when appropriate care and follow-up are maintained. Many individuals experience improved energy levels, fewer dietary restrictions, and enhanced quality of life compared to dialysis. Advances in immunosuppressive therapy have significantly increased transplant success rates and graft longevity. With proper management, transplanted kidneys can function effectively for many years. Ongoing nephrology care is essential for identifying and addressing potential issues early. At Nephrology Associates of Northern Illinois and Indiana, our long-term transplant care supports lasting health and improved outcomes.
What is a kidney transplant?
A kidney transplant is a surgical procedure that replaces a failed kidney with a healthy donor kidney. It restores many kidney functions and reduces dependence on dialysis.
Who is eligible for a kidney transplant?
Eligibility depends on overall health, kidney disease severity, and the ability to tolerate surgery and medications. A transplant evaluation determines candidacy.
How long does a transplanted kidney last?
Transplanted kidneys can function for many years, often 10–20 years or longer. Longevity depends on care, medication adherence, and overall health.
Will I need lifelong medication after transplant?
Yes, immunosuppressive medications are required long-term to prevent organ rejection. Regular monitoring ensures medication effectiveness and safety.
Can I live a normal life after a kidney transplant?
Many patients return to active, fulfilling lives after transplantation. Ongoing medical care supports long-term success.
Nephrology Associates of Northern Illinois and Indiana (NANI) is committed to providing expert kidney transplant evaluation and long-term care tailored to each patient’s needs. With locations in Berwyn and North Chicago, Illinois; Bergen, New Jersey; and additional offices throughout Illinois, New Jersey, and Indiana, our team ensures access to specialized nephrology services close to home.
If you or a loved one is considering kidney transplantation or has advanced kidney disease, our experienced nephrologists are here to help guide you through every step of the process. Contact Nephrology Associates of Northern Illinois and Indiana today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward improved kidney health and quality of life.
Please note this request form is for non urgent appointments. Our office will contact you within 2 business days of your submission. If you are experiencing a medical emergency or have an urgent need please call 911.