Financial aspects of organ transplantation

Transplantation is a goal for many patients with end stage organ disease. Of concern is how the transplant will be financed. Because patients see nurses as knowledgeable advocates for the best outcomes of care, they look to nurses for direction and empowerment to achieve the goal of organ transplant. This article discusses the major providers of financial coverage for transplant as well as managed care concepts and immunosuppressive drug coverage. Opportunities for nursing interventions for patients with each type of financial coverage are presented.