The non-profit concept is the cornerstone of the philosophy of Dialysis Clinic, Inc. The Organization was conceived in 1971, with rehabilitation of the ESRD patient and constant improvement of the patient's care as the principal thrust of its efforts. In the late 60's outpatient dialysis was a very new and ethically challenging issue. One nephrologist in particular was determined to increase the availability of this life-extending therapy for patients suffering from kidney disease in middle Tennessee. Dr. Keith Johnson, then assistant Professor of Medicine at Vanderbilt, led the efforts to establish the first outpatient dialysis facility in the Nashville area. Dr. Johnson felt strongly that the venture should be not-for-profit and decided that any excess revenues generated would be earmarked for research and education in the field of kidney disease, or for expansion of services to benefit additional ESRD patients.