Epidemiology and Comorbidity Burden of Organ Donor Referrals in Australia: Cohort Study 2010–2015

This study looked at all cases referred to the donation service and found that over time, although more people have been organ donors, a much larger proportion are declined for donation. Referral evaluation of potential donors is resource-intensive. We found the comorbidity burden among donor referrals is increasing (more people with more chronic diseases are being referred for consideration). A better understanding of referral characteristics associated with non-donation may improve the efficiency of the referral process in the context of encouraging routine referrals.

Find the text here: Epidemiology and Comorbidity Burden of Organ Donor Referrals in Australia: Cohort Study 2010–2015

Weekend effect: analysing temporal trends in solid organ donation

Other research suggests patients treated over weekends experience poorer outcomes. One study performed in the USA suggested that fewer organ retrievals happen at weekends, and of those organs retrieved, more are discarded and not used than during the week. The CODE team thought it was important to see how the Australian donor procurement service performed. We found of 3496 potential donors referred for consideration, 694 (20%) progressed to organ procurement. In Australia, the donation pathway operated consistently throughout the week, with donation no less likely to proceed on weekends and holidays.

Find the text here: Weekend effect: analysing temporal trends in solid organ donation