Impact of an interdisciplinary Mentoring program on adult patients with advanced chronic kidney disease: A multicenter, mixed-methods quasi-experimental study in Spain

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Chronic kidney disease is associated with significant physical and psychological impact, requiring an adaptation process by the patient. Peer mentoring has proven effective in managing chronic illnesses. This study aims to assess the impact of a Mentoring programme to improve patient adaptation to advanced chronic kidney disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A mixed-methods (quantitative and qualitative) quasi-experimental, multicentre, hospital-based, non-controlled study was conducted in Spain with patients aged ≥ 18 years suffering from advanced chronic kidney disease. Mentor patients and incident patients in advanced chronic kidney disease units ("mentees") were recruited from 21 hospitals. The impact of the programme was assessed on self-care ability, treatment adherence and compliance, and emotional status of patients through ad-hoc self-report measures and focus groups. RESULTS: A total of 142 mentors were trained and 315 mentees participated. Quantitative evaluation showed that most mutual support sessions were held in person (72.8%), with high satisfaction reported with the programme: 96.1% of mentees rated the sessions positively, and 91.1% felt they helped them manage the disease better. Furthermore, 89.4% felt more at ease about the future of their condition, and 79.3% reported reduced sadness. Qualitative analysis highlighted that the programme enhanced disease coping ability, reducing anxiety and increasing decision-making confidence. Mentors reported personal and professional growth, improving their communication and empathy, while mentees experienced reduced anxiety (90%) and increased confidence in managing their condition (85%). An improvement in treatment adherence and compliance, and strengthened relationships between the interdisciplinary team and patients were observed. Areas for improvement included the need for ongoing training for mentors and session flexibility, including the possibility of extending follow-up in cases requiring it. CONCLUSIONS: The Mentoring programme has a positive impact on patients with advanced chronic kidney disease, improving their coping with the illness, relationships with healthcare professionals, and the humanisation of healthcare in hospital units. Future research with more robust designs is needed to confirm these findings and evaluate the long-term effectiveness of the Mentoring programme, as well as the use of standardised instruments in the assessment.