Increasing levels of live kidney transplantation in New Zealand

Authors

  • Paula Martin

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.11157/sites-vol8iss1id162

Keywords:

public policy, organ donation, live kidney transplantation

Abstract

A kidney transplant from a living donor is the preferred treatment for people with end-stage renal failure as it offers better outcomes for patients and is more cost effective than dialysis. The shortage of deceased organ donors means that a transplant from a live donor is the only transplant option for many people. However, there is a growing gap between the number of people needing kidney transplants and the number carried out each year. Maori and Pacific peoples, in particular, have lower rates of renal transplantation than other groups. The international literature suggests there may be options to consider for further enhancing policy and practice relating to live renal transplantation (LRT) in New Zealand, but there is little New Zealand evidence about factors affecting rates of LRT. This article outlines the current problem of the gap between supply and demand for kidney transplants in New Zealand, framing this as a public policy problem, and suggesting LRT as an important strategy for addressing this issue. New Zealand-based research is required regarding the barriers to LRT and options for increasing current levels in New Zealand.

Author Biography

Paula Martin

Paula Martin is undertaking research towards a PhD in Public Policy, and is based in the Health Services Research Centre at Victoria University of Wellington. She is examining strategies for increasing the rate of live kidney transplantation in New Zealand. Paula is currently a full-time student and was previously a manager at the New Zealand Ministry of Health. In 2006 she was a live kidney donor and subsequently spent two years as a member of the Board of Kidney Health New Zealand.

Downloads

Published

23-05-2011

How to Cite

Martin, P. (2011). Increasing levels of live kidney transplantation in New Zealand. Sites: A Journal of Social Anthropology and Cultural Studies, 8(1), 59–82. https://doi.org/10.11157/sites-vol8iss1id162

Issue

Section

Articles