Chapter 15, Problem 1QC

How do you think we should allocate cadaveric kidneys and other organs?

Summary Introduction

To review:

The ideal way for allocation of kidney and other organs.

Introduction:

The organ transplant is a procedure that is in use for many years and has been proved to be effective. The real problem with organ transplant is the unavailability of suitable organs. People are on the waiting list for the getting organs transplanted, for example, the kidney for years. The current organ allocation system is good, but some refinements are needed to facilitate the procedure.

Explanation of Solution

Certain organs like kidneys can be donated by living people as there are two kidneys for each person and one kidney can effectively perform the function for the whole body. However, the rest of the organs has to be taken from cadavers. There are many people that need different organs, kidneys being most sought after as kidney transplant is time-tested and have relatively better results.

The allocation process for these organs is better than it used to be a few years ago. Still, some modifications can be made in the allotment process that may help the people on the waiting list.

1. The younger patients should be given preference over old patients as they have a long life ahead of them.

2. Patients with better chances of accepting the kidney should be given preferences.

3. Certain regions have more chances of availability of kidney depending on population, medical facilities and people understanding the need for organ donation. Organs from these regions should be made available to adjusting regions.

4. The laws such as organs donated in the certain state should be used in the same state, should be abolished.

5. Financial incentives should be given to the relatives of the people who donated their organs.

Conclusion

Therefore, some of the current rules like giving kidneys to the patients who are on the list for a longer duration are causing more organ rejections. Some refinements are needed in these laws to make the waiting period shorter and to get a better outcome for the patients.