United Network for Organ Sharing

Non-profit organization managing organ transplants in the United States

The United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) is a non-profit organization that manages the nation's organ transplant system under contract with the federal government. UNOS is responsible for overseeing the organ transplant process in the United States, ensuring that organs are distributed in a fair and efficient manner.

History

UNOS was established in 1984, following the passage of the National Organ Transplant Act. This act created the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN), which UNOS has operated since its inception. The organization was formed to address the growing need for a centralized system to manage organ transplants and to ensure equitable access to organs for patients across the country.

Functions

UNOS operates the national waiting list for organ transplants, matching donors to recipients based on a variety of factors, including medical urgency, blood type, and geographic location. The organization also develops policies to improve the organ transplant process and works to increase the number of available organs through public education and outreach efforts.

Organ Allocation

The organ allocation process is a critical function of UNOS. The organization uses a computerized system to match donors with recipients, taking into account factors such as:

• Medical urgency
• Compatibility of blood type and tissue
• Time on the waiting list
• Distance between donor and recipient

Policy Development

UNOS is responsible for developing policies that govern the organ transplant process. These policies are created through a collaborative process involving transplant professionals, patients, and the public. The policies are designed to ensure that the organ allocation process is fair and transparent.

Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN)

The OPTN is a national network that links all professionals involved in the organ donation and transplantation system. UNOS operates the OPTN under contract with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The OPTN is responsible for:

• Maintaining the national transplant waiting list
• Facilitating organ matching and placement
• Collecting and analyzing data on organ donation and transplantation

UNOS Regions

Map of UNOS regions

The United States is divided into 11 UNOS regions, each of which is responsible for coordinating organ donation and transplantation activities within its geographic area. These regions help to ensure that organs are allocated efficiently and that transplant centers work together to improve patient outcomes.

Related pages

• Organ donation
• Transplant surgery
• National Organ Transplant Act