COVID-19 pandemic: Building organisational flexibility to scale transplant programs

Area of Science:

• Medicine
• Public Health
• Transplantation Science

Background:

• The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic presented unprecedented global challenges.
• The pandemic significantly disrupted worldwide organ transplantation activities.
• Factors like travel restrictions, resource limitations, and evolving guidelines impacted transplant programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the challenges faced by organ transplantation during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To propose principles for restarting and sustaining transplantation activities.
• To advocate for patient needs and responsible organ stewardship.

Main Methods:

• This study is a review and synthesis of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on transplantation.
• It analyzes logistical, resource, and guideline-related challenges.
• It proposes a framework for enhancing organizational flexibility and practice appraisal.

Main Results:

• Transplant activity was unfavorably influenced by logistical hurdles and resource constraints.
• Uncertainty regarding infection risk in immunosuppressed recipients complicated decision-making.
• Existing practices required re-evaluation to adapt to the pandemic's realities.

Conclusions:

• Restarting transplantation necessitates building organizational flexibility.
• Key principles include fostering honesty, transparency, open communication, and collaboration.
• A thorough re-evaluation of all practice elements is crucial for mindful organ stewardship and patient advocacy.