History

Clinical Renal Physiologists are independent health professionals and an integral member of the renal ream. They perform all types of renal dialysis and other specialised extracorporeal therapies. They independently provide all treatment associated care to patients in collaboration with other health professionals and provide technical expertise in dialysis related equipment and water quality standards.

The New Zealand Board of Dialysis Practice (NZBDP) was established in 2000, in response to a growing need for a local, self-regulated professional governing body. In April 2012, the NZBDP merged registration functions with the Clinical Physiologist Registration Board (CPRB), joining cardiac, sleep and respiratory clinical physiologists.

In October 2016, the NZBDP unanimously voted to incorporate members from Australia to create an international professional society. This was ratified in December 2017, the constitution was updated, and the society was renamed the New Zealand and Australia Society of Renal Dialysis Practice Incorporated (NZASRDP).

The primary functions of the NZASRDP are;

• Maintaining a certification, recertification, credentialing and registration process for renal physiologists
• Supporting the national renal physiologist training program
• Maintaining appropriate training and examination
• Establishing and monitoring standards of practice including competencies
• Providing a structure for career and professional development
• Establishing and maintaining relationships with similar occupational groups
• Advising on renal physiologist/technician roles and development at a local, regional or national level

In New Zealand, all practicing clinical physiologists require an Annual Practicing Certificate (APC) which is obtained through the CPRB. Registration options for physiologists in Australia are currently being explored.