Chapter 15, Problem 1QC

Summary Introduction

 

To review:

 

The ideal way for allocation of the cadaveric kidney as well as other organs. Also, mention the suggestions for improvement of the present system.

 

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 getting the organs transplanted. The current organ allocation system is good; however, some refinements are needed to facilitate the procedure.

 

 

 

Explanation of Solution

 

Certain organs such as kidneys can be donated by living people as there are two kidneys in a 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 (deceased person). There are many people, who need different organs. The kidneys being most sought after as a kidney transplant is time-tested and its results are relatively better.

 

Currently, the allocation process for these organs is better than it used to be a few years ago. The patients, who required kidney put themselves on the health and human service organization’s list. The United Network of organ sharing (UNO) maintains and readily update the waiting lists of the transplant recipients. However, 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 or any other required organ should be given preferences.  

 

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

 

 

Conclusion

 

Therefore, it can be concluded that some of the current rules like giving kidneys or other organs 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.