AAKP article: Support Group Development
A patient support group can provide and exchange information ranging from kidney disease research and new treatment options to how a person can cope with kidney disease. Individuals in support groups talk about issues they deal with on a daily basis and are provided the opportunity to discuss more in-depth, personal decisions that other members have dealt with, or might face in the future.
More info:
http://www.aakp.org/outreach/development/