Topic: Health

A new study found that nearly half of Americans with kidney failure never start the evaluation process for a transplant. Only 19% of patients who started the process made it to the waitlist.

A recent study in the United States looked at why many people with kidney failure don't get a kidney transplant. Researchers from NYU Langone Health analyzed data from over 720,000 patients referred for a transplant between 2014 and 2025.

The study found that nearly half of these patients (48%) never started the evaluation process for a transplant. Only about one in five patients who started the process (19%) made it to the waitlist, where they could be considered for a transplant.

The researchers identified several groups that were less likely to start or complete the evaluation process. These included unmarried people, those with severe obesity, and those living in rural areas. Older adults, Spanish speakers, and people with lower incomes also faced greater challenges.

The study suggested that the complexity of the transplant evaluation process may be a major barrier for many patients. This process involves multiple appointments over several months, including blood tests, chest imaging, and other examinations.

Smaller transplant centers may have fewer resources and available transplant opportunities, which could lead them to be more selective when evaluating candidates. Patients who are unmarried or have limited social support may also face greater difficulties arranging transportation and attending repeated appointments.

Why It Matters

This study is important because it highlights the challenges faced by people with kidney failure in getting a transplant. In India, where many people suffer from kidney disease, this study's findings can help policymakers and healthcare providers improve access to transplants for those who need them.

Key Facts

• Over 720,000 patients were referred for a kidney transplant between 2014 and 2025.
• Nearly half of these patients (48%) never started the evaluation process for a transplant.
• Only about one in five patients who started the process (19%) made it to the waitlist.
• Unmarried people, those with severe obesity, and those living in rural areas were less likely to start or complete the evaluation process.
• Smaller transplant centers may have fewer resources and available transplant opportunities.

Key Terms

Kidney Transplant

A surgical procedure where a healthy kidney from a donor is transplanted into a person with kidney failure.

Dialysis

A treatment that filters waste products from the blood when kidneys are not functioning properly.

Implications

This study is important because it highlights the challenges faced by people with kidney failure in getting a transplant. In India, where many people suffer from kidney disease, this study's findings can help policymakers and healthcare providers improve access to transplants for those who need them.