The role of the nephrologist in the management of vascular access for hemodialysis has recently been the subject of intense debate on the SIN mailing list. In the present issue, the topic is commented on in view of some literature data. The DOPPS Study has provided information about vascular access practice patterns in different countries. The use of arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is much more frequent in Europe than in the USA (80% vs 24%), where grafts are the most frequent vascular access (58%). In Europe, AVF is most common in Italy (90%), where nephrologists are largely in charge of vascular access surgery. AVF survival has been demonstrated to be longer than graft survival. Vascular access is also associated with patient survival, as the mortality and hospitalization risks are higher in patients with central venous catheters (CVC) and lower in those with AVF. Independent of who is in charge of vascular access surgery, nephrologists play a pivotal role as the main actors of patient care. Nephrological follow-up before dialysis initiation has been independently associated with permanent vascular access and improved patient survival. The Canadian experience, where CVC use is high due to the lag between patient referral and vascular access surgery, has taught that it is mandatory to give vascular access surgery sufficient room and time. In this respect, the nephrologist has an important role to play in the organization of vascular access surgery to fulfill patients' needs in real time.