Results of a Multilateral Approach to Donation–Transplantation Process in Hungary in the Past 2 Years

Abstract

Hungarotransplant Public Service Corporation, the national organ exchange organization, was established in 2001. The assessment of donation- and transplantation-related data allows the evaluation of the current situation and future trends. The donor reports show involvement of new hospitals and an increase in reported donors. These results are due to a new centralized organ referral system implemented by Hungarotransplant, employment of donation links in donor hospitals, training for key persons in intensive care units, and implementation of a Donor Action program, generating frequent and positive media attention. In 2002 the number of realized cadaveric donors increased by 21% and remained stable in 2003 despite the further increase in referrals. In 2002 the number of heart transplants remained the same, and liver transplant activity declined. In contrast, in 2003 the heart transplant activity rose by 33% and liver transplant activity by 82%. The multiorgan donation rate and the total number of transplanted organs have increased continuously. Our data demonstrate that organized multilateral efforts resulted in an immediate improvement in donation–transplantation activity in Hungary. However, the role of factors other than the shortage of organs, such as capacity problems and limited financial resources, are also highlighted.