US organ transplant system features significant variation

The United States organ transplant system is characterized by significant variation among hospitals, meaning patient outcomes and waiting times can differ based on the specific center chosen. While approximately 100,000 people are on the U.S. transplant list at any given time—the majority requiring kidneys—the criteria for acceptance into transplant programs vary by institution.

Experts suggest that patients can improve their chances by actively researching transplant centers. Publicly available data, such as the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients (SRTR) database, provides information on hospital performance, transplant volumes, waiting times, and outcomes. New patient-friendly tools have been developed for the SRTR to help individuals navigate these high-stakes decisions.

Last year, the U.S. performed just over 49,000 transplants, a figure driven by a decade of increased deceased donations managed by organ procurement organizations (OPOs). However, demand continues to outpace supply, and medical professionals note that a patient rejected by one center may still be successfully transplanted at another.