Because liver transplantation is an issue that affects many in our community, we wanted to share the following news regarding liver transplantation policy changes that may take place in the United States in the near future. This proposed policy change is open to public comment beginning TODAY, so please visit the links below to learn more and make a comment if you are so inclined.
The Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) was established by the National Organ Transplant Act in 1984. Its goals are to increase the number of and access to transplants, improve survival rates after transplantation, and to promote patient safety and efficient management of the transplant system. The United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) is a private non-profit organization under contract with the federal government.OPTN/UNOS are the driving forces behind the organ transplantation program in the United States.
OPTN/UNOS have announced a new proposed policy to improve liver allocation and distribution, so that patients across the country who are waiting for a liver transplant have a more equal chance of getting a transplant. Click here for an article that summarizes the proposed changes.
OPTN/UNOS seek public comments on the proposal beginning today, August 15, 2016. All are encouraged to participate in the comment process, particularly transplant candidates who are most affected by policies. The OPTN website contains detailed information about the proposal, and serves as the portal to submit comments.
For those interested in learning more about the liver allocation and distribution proposal, the OPTN/UNOS Liver and Intestinal Organ Transplantation Committee is hosting a free webinar on August 19, 2016 from 3:00-4:30 PM Eastern. For more information on the webinar and to register, please click here.
As always, we are together in the fight, whatever it takes!
