No categories found for this post.
What Is the Organ Procurement & Transplantation Network (OPTN)?
The Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) is a nationwide transplant system. While it is not a government agency or entity, it operates under the oversight and contract of the […]
The Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) is a nationwide transplant system. While it is not a government agency or entity, it operates under the oversight and contract of the federal government through the United States Department of Health and Human Services. The purpose of the OPTN is to carry out the functions outlined in the National Organ Transplant Act of 1984 and to improve the system further so that more individuals can access suitable organs for transplantation.
The OPTN is composed of professionals in the transplantation and donation system, as well as member organizations and individual members. Membership in the OPTN requires that organizations and institutions meet specific requirements set by the OPTN and that they actively contribute to the formation of policies that guide the transplant systems. These members contribute to decision-making in collaboration with committees and the OPTN board of directors. Members of the OPTN include, but are not limited to:
- Organ procurement organizations (OPO)
- Transplant hospital programs
- Transplant histocompatibility laboratories
- Voluntary health organizations
- Medical professional organizations
- Scientific organizations
- General public members (donor families, ethicists, etc.)
- Business members
Additionally, the OPTN manages organ allocation to patients based on factors such as urgency, proximity, compatibility and other relevant factors. As the infrastructure that connects members to facilitate fair access to organs, the OPTN also monitors the performance of OPOs and transplant centers to ensure that they remain compliant with federal regulations. Overall, the OPTN is vital in the support and advancement of organ transplantation throughout the United States.
Sources
“About OPTN”. Organ Procurement & Transplantation Network. https://optn.transplant.hrsa.gov/about/
“About OPTN membership”. Organ Procurement & Transplantation Network. https://optn.transplant.hrsa.gov/about/about-optn-membership/
