# Chilean organ transplant shortages and donation challenges

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/chilean-organ-transplant-shortages-and-donation-challenges
> Updated: 2026-10-05T08:38:02.000Z. Sources: 17. Developments: 3.

While Chilean health institutions have seen localized successes, such as the Hospital Regional de Talca reaching a record 24 renal transplants in 2026, broader trends indicate persistent challenges. Medical professionals in Ovalle and academic experts continue to highlight that family refusal rates remain a significant obstacle driven by misinformation and the necessity for clearer communication regarding donor intentions.

Recent data shows a decline in donation rates in the Ñuble region. Specifically, the Hospital Clínico Herminda Martín in Chillán recorded only one effective donor in 2026, a decrease from the four multi-organ procurements seen in both 2024 and 2025. Within this region, 91 people are currently waiting for kidney transplants, while more than 200 others are undergoing medical studies to qualify for the list.

Nationally, the gap between supply and demand remains critical, with the number of people on transplant waiting lists rising slightly to 2,277.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-05: Organ donation: New labor protections in Spain and declining rates in Chile

Spain has implemented laws protecting the income of living organ donors, while Chile faces declining donation rates and growing transplant waiting lists in the Ñuble region.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/organ-donation-new-labor-protections-in-spain-and-declining-rates-in-chile

### 2026-09-29: Organ transplantation trends and challenges reported across Latin America

Organ donation and transplantation activities show varied trends across Latin America, with record numbers in parts of Argentina and Mexico, while Chile faces challenges with family refusal and Peru reports a药物

12 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/chilean-health-experts-urge-family-dialogue-to-increase-organ-donation-rates

### 2026-09-27: Chilean news reports transplant shortages and political updates

Chilean news reports highlight that transplants cover only 25% of waiting lists, alongside updates on coral discoveries and regional political mobilizations.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/chilean-news-reports-transplant-shortages-and-political-updates

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Cite as: Chilean organ transplant shortages and donation challenges. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/chilean-organ-transplant-shortages-and-donation-challenges