We strive to make your visit as smooth and comfortable as possible. Below you will find helpful information to get you prepared for your upcoming appointment and ongoing care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Medical Specialty and Diagnosis
What Does a Nephrologist Do?
A nephrologist is a physician with specialized training in caring for the kidneys and managing the complications that can arise when they aren’t functioning properly. At NANV, our doctors play a pivotal role in both diagnosing and treating a wide range of kidney-related conditions—from common issues like kidney stones to more complex concerns such as chronic kidney disease or kidney failure.
Nephrologists are integral partners in your healthcare journey, offering expertise in several key areas, including:
Assessing kidney health by reviewing your medical history and conducting specialized tests, such as bloodwork, urine studies, and kidney imaging.
Diagnosing and managing both acute and chronic kidney diseases. This includes conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes-related kidney issues, and the progressive decline in kidney function (chronic kidney disease).
Determining when treatments like dialysis or a kidney transplant may be necessary, and guiding patients through those processes.
Supervising kidney dialysis treatments and monitoring ongoing results, always working to ensure patient comfort and safety.
Recommending lifestyle adjustments—including dietary changes, medication plans, and exercise routines—to help maintain your kidney function and overall well-being.
Coordinating care with a wide network of medical professionals, from surgeons and dietitians to physical therapists and social workers, to support every aspect of your health.
You might also hear nephrologists referred to as “kidney doctors” or “renal specialists.” Regardless of the title, their mission remains the same: to partner with you and your loved ones in protecting your kidney health for the long term.
What Tests and Treatments Does a Nephrologist Provide?
When you partner with a nephrologist at Nephrology Associates of Northern Virginia, you can expect care that is both thorough and tailored to your unique needs. Our physicians use a wide range of diagnostic tools and treatments to protect your kidney health and manage any underlying conditions.
Common tests might include blood work to assess kidney function, urinalysis to detect abnormalities, and imaging studies such as ultrasounds or CT scans to get a better look at your kidneys. In some cases, a kidney biopsy may be performed to gather more information.
Treatment plans are customized but often involve medication management, especially for conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes that impact the kidneys. If needed, we provide advanced therapies such as dialysis and coordinate care before and after kidney transplants.
Beyond medical procedures, our team supports your long-term wellbeing by recommending dietary adjustments, developing lifestyle plans, and working closely with other specialists—including surgeons, dietitians, and social workers—to ensure you have access to every resource necessary for maintaining your best kidney health.
I was told that I have kidney disease. Does this mean I need dialysis?
Not all patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) require dialysis. Being told that you have CKD can be frightening. Seeking consultation with a Nephrologist is the first step in understanding your situation. Our physicians will review your records, explain the situation, and create a customized treatment plan for you.
How Nephrologists Support You Through Dialysis and Transplant Care
Navigating dialysis or the prospect of a kidney transplant can feel overwhelming, but that’s where our expertise comes in. Our nephrologists guide you every step of the way—right from the initial assessment of your kidney function to determining whether dialysis or transplantation is your best option.
We help you understand:
What type of dialysis (hemodialysis or peritoneal) matches your lifestyle and medical needs
How to prepare for and manage your dialysis treatment safely and effectively
What to expect before, during, and after a kidney transplant, with ongoing monitoring and support to ensure the best possible outcome
Throughout every phase, we collaborate closely with you, your family, and your broader care team—always advocating for your comfort and long-term well-being.
Appointments
How do I make an appointment?
Clinic hours are 9:00 AM to 11:15 AM and 2:00 PM to 4:15 PM Monday through Friday.
Requesting an appointment with a nephrologist at Nephrology Associates of Northern Virginia is designed to be straightforward and convenient. You can simply call our main office or the location nearest you to speak with our administrative team, who will help guide you through the scheduling process.
You can expect:
Personalized Assistance: Our staff will listen to your needs and match you with one of our experienced, board-certified nephrologists.
Multiple Locations: With eleven offices throughout Northern Virginia, we’ll work with you to find a location and appointment time that best fits your schedule.
Flexible Options: Whether you are a new or returning patient, we offer flexible appointment times to ensure you receive timely care.
To get started, just reach out by phone to the office that’s most convenient for you, and we’ll take care of the rest—ensuring your care journey begins smoothly and comfortably.
How soon will I be seen?
We make every effort to schedule your appointment as soon as possible. If you prefer to see a particular Nephrologist, this may increase your wait time. If the matter is truly urgent please have your referring physician contact us to discuss your case. In the event of a medical emergency, please dial 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Room.
Please have the following information on hand:
Referring physician’s or practice name
Reason for referral
Demographic information (date of birth, home address, best contact number, Social Security number)
Insurance information. New patients will be mailed a packet to be completed prior to the visit. The forms are also available for download.
How long will my appointment be?
Initial consultations may last approximately 30 minutes. Follow-up visits typically last 15 minutes. The length of time may vary depending on your needs.
Referrals
Do I need a referral?
This depends on your insurance plan. Please contact your insurance provider to determine if a referral from your primary care physician is required. If a referral is required and not provided, your insurance may bill you the full amount of the visit.We always welcome new patients, however, we will not negotiate with your insurance provider on your behalf.
I have been referred to a particular Nephrologist. Do I have to see him/her?
While you may have been referred to a particular Nephrologist in our group, you are welcome to see any of our Nephrologists. All of our Nephrologists are board certified and are accepting new patients.
How do you communicate with my referring physician?
After each office visit, we fax a copy of our office note to your referring physician, usually within 24-48 hours.
When it comes to your health, we know it truly takes a team. Our Nephrologists work closely with primary care physicians and a wide network of medical professionals—including other specialists—to make sure your care is coordinated and comprehensive.
Through this collaborative approach, we ensure every aspect of your well-being is addressed. Whether you need advice from a dietitian for nutritional concerns, support from a nurse in managing medications, or input from other specialists regarding related conditions, our team makes communication a priority. We believe that by sharing insights and expertise across disciplines, we can develop a treatment plan tailored just for you—ensuring the best possible outcomes for your kidney health.
Hospitals
Which hospitals in the area do you service?
Our group has privileges at the following hospitals:
INOVA Fairfax Hospital
INOVA Fair Oaks Hospital
INOVA Alexandria Hospital
INOVA Loudoun Hospital
Reston Hospital Center
Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center
What happens if I am admitted to the hospital and I would like you to follow along?
We are more than happy to see you if our services are needed. We ask that your Hospitalist physician contacts our office to request a hospital consultation.
Medical Records
How do I obtain a copy of my medical records?
If you need a copy of your medical records, please call our main office at 703-961-0488.
Please sign the release of records statement (available for download here)
Please fax or email the signed release of records statement to our main office at 703-961-0480
When our office receives the signed release of records statement, we will send your medical records to you or to your physician as requested.
Is there a fee for obtaining a copy of my medical records?
• There is no fee for sending records to your physician
• There is a small fee for making a personal copy. Once payment has been received, we will send your copy via the US Postal Service.
Labs
Where do I have my labs done?
We do not perform lab testing in our offices. You may have your blood work done at any lab that participates with your insurance provider. Please contact your insurance provider for a list of local labs.
Do I need to fast before my blood work?
Not necessarily. It depends on the tests being ordered. Please review the lab order with your Nephrologist during your visit to ensure that you understand if fasting is required.
Insurance and Fees
Which insurance plans do you accept?
We work with most commercial insurance carriers as well as Medicare and Medicaid. Please call our main office at 703-961-0488 with questions.
Why do I have co-pay?
Many insurance plans require copay by the patient. Please contact your insurance provider to determine if co-pay is required to see a specialist.
When do I have to pay my copay?
Your copay is due at the time of your visit.
Who do I contact with questions about my bill?
For any inquiries, please call 703-961-0488 and ask to be connected to one of our billing specialists.
Why am I receiving a bill?
Your insurance plan may not cover the entire cost of the visit. The balance is the responsibility of the patient. For any inquiries, please call 703-961-0488 and ask to be connected to one of our billing specialists.
I am having financial difficulty paying my bill. What do I do?
We are more than happy to work with you to develop a payment plan. Please call 703-961-0488 and ask to be connected to one of our billing specialists.
Patient Portal
Do you have a Patient Portal?
Yes. Log on to mychart.davitaphysiciansolutions.com (you will need to register if this is your first time)
Through the patient portal you can:
Update your demographic information
Check your appointment date and time
Review your medications and diagnosis
Review your office vital signs
Review your lab results, which will be available to you after your Nephrologist has reviewed them with you
Education
Wondering how to get up to speed on kidney health or find support with managing a kidney condition? There are several straightforward ways to arm yourself with the right knowledge and resources:
Reputable Online Resources: Organizations such as the National Kidney Foundation and the American Kidney Fund offer up-to-date, research-backed information about common kidney issues like stones, chronic kidney disease, and high blood pressure. These sites also provide handy prevention tips, downloadable guides, and patient support forums.
Workshops and Webinars: We work closely with Davita who provides the Kidney Smart Program free of charge. Through the Kidney Smart Program, patients can receive education about Chronic Kidney Disease as well as Dialysis.
Diet
I was told that I need to follow a kidney/renal diet?
Where do I find additional information?
The National Kidney Foundation provides an excellent information including example recipes. In addition seeking consultation with a certified dietitian is often recommended.
I was instructed to reduce my dietary intake of potassium.
What are some potassium rich foods?
Here is a list of the most common potassium rich foods.