Living Kidney Donor: Next Steps
- Complete the National Kidney Registry’s Online Health Questionnaire using the recipient’s name and date of birth from the email sent by our team.
- The process takes about 30 minutes and doesn’t commit you to donating—you can opt out at any time.
- When asked, select University of Utah Medical Center as the recipient’s transplant center. However, donors often donate at a center closer to home, and you’ll choose your preferred center later in the process to ensure recovery near home.
- Taking this health survey is a great first step to see if you can continue with the evaluation.
- After your initial health questionnaire is reviewed and approved, a lab kit will be sent for blood work, which can be completed at a local Quest or another blood draw facility.
- This test checks for compatibility with the intended recipient and measures other general health indicators.
- The results will be sent to the National Kidney Registry (NKR) for review.
- After processing your labs, the NKR will contact you to choose a transplant center for your evaluation, donation, and follow-up care.
- You have one week to select a center; otherwise, one will be chosen for you.
- There are several factors to consider when choosing a center. Here is additional information to help you select a center.
- You may also discuss your options with your Donor Navigator if you would like support.
What's Next?
The Living Donor Team from Your Selected Transplant Center Will Contact You
After completing the initial steps, the Living Donor Team at your selected Transplant Center will contact you to discuss the next steps and assist in scheduling your full day of medical testing, all of which will be covered by the recipient's insurance.
Reach Out with Questions, Concerns, or to Opt Out
After you select a transplant center and connect with your Living Donor Coordinator, you will begin working with members of the Living Donor Team. This team is separate from the team that supports your recipient and is focused entirely on you. They are there to guide and support you throughout the process, and we encourage you to ask questions and continue learning as you move forward.
Your Confidentiality is Protected
Also, please know that the patient won’t be informed of your progress—you’ll be the one to decide if and when to share that you stepped forward. If you’d like a medical alibi for opting out, the Transplant Center can provide one to help protect your privacy and avoid any discomfort with the recipient.
Where Can I Explore Living Donation Further?
This community is a supportive space for current and prospective kidney donors to connect, share experiences, and ask honest questions about the journey. Here, you’ll meet others who truly understand what you’re going through and can offer insights, support, and encouragement. Whether you’re curious about what to expect, have personal questions, or just want to connect, this group is a safe place to find understanding and connection with people on the same path.
Discover the protections available to you as a living donor. Living donation is intended to be cost-neutral, and various programs and resources are available to ensure you’re fully supported throughout the process. Learn more about what’s available to help you avoid any out-of-pocket expenses.
Take a look at our Living Donor Timeline For Remote Donors document to get a clear picture of the entire process from start to finish. Additionally, explore GiftWorks’ Living Donor Resource page, where you’ll find a variety of helpful topics to guide you as you move forward, including links to our podcast, Donor Diaries which discusses a wide range of topics related to living donation.
Conversations with Living Donors
Curious about living donation? Join one of our “Conversations with Living Donors” sessions on ZOOM. During these sessions, you will connect with living donors and others considering donation. This is your chance to hear firsthand experiences, including the triumphs, challenges, and unique perspectives of those on the same path. You’ll gain valuable insights, discover answers to questions you hadn’t considered, and explore your own thoughts, fears, and motivations in a supportive environment.
Offer Support by Becoming an Advocate
Whether you’re in the middle of the donor evaluation process, were ruled out as a donor, or decided donation wasn’t the right choice for you, you can still make a profound impact. By becoming an advocate for your intended recipient, you play a vital role in sharing their story and connecting them with potential donors.
Advocates help raise awareness, amplify the recipient’s voice, and significantly increase their chances of finding a living donor. Ready to learn more?