For Patients & Families: Attend a Free Screening
attend a free screening
Throughout the year, the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois hosts a series of free, kidney health screening events. Our one-of-a-kind KidneyMobile®, events take place all across the state of Illinois.
A typical screening allows participants to receive a battery of free, comprehensive medical tests, and the opportunity to review his/her screening results with a trained medical professional on-site.
As attendees review their screenings with medical personnel, they may receive information on health and wellness; tips on maintaining a healthier lifestyle; and, if necessary, referrals to relevant healthcare providers.
Regina White, CNA, CPT
KidneyMobile® Manager
Regina White is a clinical nursing assistant and licensed phlebotomist who has been with NKFI since 1997. She manages the KidneyMobile® program - the first mobile kidney screening unit in the country.
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Regina and her team rely on volunteers and partners to keep screenings running smoothly and frequently partner with nursing schools, community groups, and medical professionals to provide the highest quality of care to all participants. Have questions about the screenings? Contact Regina at 312-321-1500 or rwhite@nkfi.org.
find a screening near you
how to use the KidneyMobile map
To find a KidneyMobile® screening near you:
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First, click on the map itself (or tap on it, if you're using a mobile device).
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Then, simply enter your address or zip code in the search field located in the map's upper left-hand corner.
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Each screening is is marked on the map with an orange pin.
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After you've entered your location information, the screening closest to you will be marked with a blue pin.
Clicking on an individual pin will let you view more information about that screening, including details on time, location specifics, and what health tests will be offered at that specific event. Please note: you do not need to register to attend - but if you would like to register in advance, the NKFI can send you a courtesy email reminding you about your plan as the date approaches.
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Screenings are scheduled between March and November. Check back for schedule updates soon!
all free screening events
make a plan to know your kidneys
screening stations
what to expect at a KidneyMobile® screening event
Tests offered at KidneyMobile® screening events vary, but typically, you can expect a combination of the following:
Blood Pressure
Untreated and/or undiagnosed high blood pressure can cause kidney disease. High blood pressure in most adults ages 18-60 is greater than 140/90, or greater than 150/90 if you are over age 60. Goals for blood pressure may differ depending on if you have conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, or protein in your urine. Talk to your doctor to find out what the right goal is for you.
Body Mass Index (BMI)
Body Mass Index is the relation of height to weight. Obesity can cause diabetes and cardiovascular complications.
Waist Circumference
This is a simple measurement of the waist. Carrying too much weight around your middle can increase your risk of developing diabetes and other diseases.
Blood Draw
A blood draw provides information on serum creatinine and eGFR, an estimation of kidney function.
Blood Glucose
Blood is drawn through a simple finger stick and is tested to assess how much glucose (sugar) is in your blood. It is not a definite indicator for diabetes. Diabetics and others who are considered at greater risk may have an additional HbA1c test performed which provides a 3-month snapshot of blood sugar control.
Private Consultation
We want to make sure you understand your screening results and important next steps to better your health. Each participant will have a private consultation at the end of the screening where you receive your individual test results.
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Urinalysis
A urine sample determines if there is an infection or if there are microscopic amounts of protein present. This can be an early sign of kidney disease, sometimes referred to as "spilling protein."
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host a screening
bring KidneyMobile® to your community
Want to invite the KidneyMobile® to your neighborhood for a day of community health and education? The National Kidney Foundation of Illinois is eager to work with you! We accept requests from all manner of passionate community leaders like yourself. Please review the requirements to host a KidneyMobile® event (see below), then just fill out the form and submit your information.
NKFI kidney health resources
The information shared on this website has been reviewed by staff at the New York City headquarters of the National Kidney Foundation. Please note: material contained here are intended solely for reference. This material does not constitute medical advice; it is intended for informational purposes only. If you feel you need professional medical care, please consult a physician for specific treatment recommendations.