Access to liver transplantation for minority populations in the United States.

Abstract

Racial disparities in access to liver transplantation have been known since the National Transplant Act of 1980. Since the inception of the Final Rule in 2000, the United Network of Organ Sharing has sought to ensure the equitable distribution of donor livers. Despite several measures aimed to improve access for vulnerable populations, disparities in outcomes are still prevalent throughout the liver transplant (LT) evaluation, while on the waitlist, and after liver transplantation. Blacks and Hispanics are underrepresented on the LT list and have an increased waitlist mortality rate compared to Whites. Additionally, Blacks have a significantly higher risk of posttransplant mortality. Ongoing efforts are necessary to eliminate inequities in transplant access. Strategies such as policy implementation and increasing diversity in the healthcare workforce may prove efficacious in creating change.