A recent news piece highlighted the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in determining lung transplant candidacy. The Lung Selection Committee, comprising transplant doctors, surgeons, nurse coordinators, social workers, pharmacists, financial coordinators, and dietitians, plays a crucial role in assessing the safety and viability of lung transplant surgeries. Once all the necessary evaluations and requirements are completed, the committee reviews the case over a period of one to two weeks before reaching a decision.
If approved for a lung transplant, patients have their names and relevant medical information entered into the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) database and placed on the waiting list. This national database ensures equitable distribution of donated organs and operates 24/7 with the assistance of organ procurement organizations (OPOs). In the specific region of Colorado and Wyoming, the Donor Alliance (DA) serves as the OPO responsible for the coordination, retrieval, and distribution of organs.
This multidisciplinary approach and adherence to the UNOS system for prioritizing transplant candidates emphasizes the commitment to fairness and patient care in the selection and distribution of donated organs for lung transplantation. The involvement of various medical professionals ensures a comprehensive evaluation process and a plan of care after transplantation. The efficient operation of the UNOS database and the coordination efforts of OPOs like the Donor Alliance contribute to a streamlined and effective organ distribution system.
