DPC supports an adequately funded treatment infrastructure that offers stable and convenient sources of care that rewards performance and incentivizes quality outcomes. In addition, we are committed to ensuring access to all forms of treatment for end-stage renal disease, including transplantation. As a result, we work closely with others within the renal community to advocate for adequate policy solutions that encourage organ donation and protect patients’ health.
In order for patients to make educated decisions about their care, they need transparency and accountability. A bill that was introduced by Senator Todd Young (IN) aims to tackle these issues by improving the organ donation system in the United States.
The bill—known as S.2063 – Organ Procurement Optimization Act of 2019—is a provision to the Executive Order on improving kidney health in America. Specifically, the bill would “amend the Social Security Act regarding the 58 organ procurement organizations (OPOs) in the United States that maintain control over the process to obtain organs.”
Once implemented, regulations will be proposed that monitor the quality and performance of OPOs, which would streamline facility comparison and actionable evaluation.
Currently, there are over 100,000 individuals waiting for a kidney transplant, while only 17,000 kidney transplants are performed each year. DPC was proud to support this bill prior to its introduction and inclusion in the Executive Order, as we hope it will help to advance quality of care and patient choice for the thousands of Americans with end-stage renal disease.
