What key factor must dialysis facilities ensure in relation to water treatment systems?

Dialysis facilities must prioritize maintaining regulatory compliance as a key factor regarding their water treatment systems. This is crucial because the water used in dialysis procedures must meet specific safety and quality standards to prevent serious health complications in patients. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and other regulatory bodies set forth clear guidelines regarding the acceptable levels of contaminants in water used for dialysis. Compliance with these standards ensures that facilities provide safe treatment for their patients, thereby reducing the risk of infections or other adverse health outcomes that can arise from contaminated water.

While cost-efficiency, technology trends, and marketing assessments may be relevant to the operations of a dialysis facility, they are secondary to the fundamental need to comply with health and safety regulations. Ensuring that water treatment systems are effective and adhere to established guidelines is a critical part of patient care and is essential for the facility's credibility and operational legality.