Question 1

What does kidney donation involve?

Accepted Answer

The process of kidney donation, from initial evaluation to surgery, is well-organized and streamlined. It involves several steps, including medical tests, psychological assessments, and consultations, designed to ensure the safety and suitability of the donor. The process is managed by experienced medical professionals who guide donors through every stage.

Question 2

Can I be too young or too old to donate?

Accepted Answer

Age can be a concern due to several factors, but if an individual is healthy, they can donate a kidney at almost any age. Transplant centers may have their own specific rules and guidelines related to donor age, but there is no maximum age limit to register to become a donor through the National Kidney Registry.

Question 3

What if I donate but someone else needs a kidney at a later date? Should I save my kidney just in case?

Accepted Answer

If you donate a kidney and later a friend or family member needs a transplant, the Family Voucher Program allows you to donate while protecting your loved ones in the unlikely event they ever need a kidney transplant.

Question 4

What if I’m not a match for the person I want to donate to?

Accepted Answer

If you are not a medical match for the person you want to donate to, you can donate through the Voucher Program to help them receive a kidney. Your donation can help both your intended recipient and another person in need, potentially changing two lives.

Question 5

Do I have to undergo testing and surgery at the same center as the patient, or can I go to a center near me?

Accepted Answer

If you donate through the National Kidney Registry’s remote donation network, you can complete pre-donation testing and surgery at a transplant center close to you. Your kidney is then shipped to the recipient’s transplant center, which may be in a different city or across the country.

Question 6

Is kidney donation a high-risk surgery?

Accepted Answer

Living kidney donation is a major surgery, but advancements in medical technology have significantly reduced the associated risks, making it one of the safest types of surgery. Most donors experience a smooth recovery and can return to normal activities within a few weeks. Hospitals follow strict protocols and screening processes to ensure donor safety.

Question 7

How long will it take to recover from kidney donation?

Accepted Answer

Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery and the individual. Most donors are hospitalized for a few days after surgery. Once discharged, recovery typically involves rest and limited physical activity for a few weeks, after which most people can resume normal routines.

Question 8

I am the sole provider for my family. What do I do about lost wages?

Accepted Answer

The National Kidney Registry’s Donor Shield program offers financial assistance to living donors, including lost wage reimbursement up to $2,000 per week for up to 12 weeks. This allows donors to avoid using short-term disability or personal leave for their donation.

Question 9

Who will pay for my hospital stay, travel, medications, doctor appointments, etc.?

Accepted Answer

Kidney donation should not cost the donor anything. Medical expenses are covered by the recipient’s insurance. Nonmedical costs such as lost wages, travel, and childcare may be covered through the Donor Shield program.

Question 10

Does donating a kidney affect the donor’s long-term health?

Accepted Answer

Studies show that kidney donation does not significantly affect long-term health. Donors typically live healthy lives with life expectancies comparable to non-donors. The remaining kidney usually performs all necessary functions.

Question 11

Can I donate a kidney if I have a chronic health condition?

Accepted Answer

Many chronic health conditions do not automatically disqualify someone from donating. Each individual is evaluated on a case-by-case basis through a thorough medical assessment to determine if donation is safe.

Question 12

Can I still get pregnant and have children after donation?

Accepted Answer

Women who donate a kidney can still become pregnant and have children. Studies show no evidence that donation affects fertility. Most pregnancies after donation are normal, though it is recommended to wait at least six months after surgery before becoming pregnant.

FAQ for Donors

Donor Shield

Living Kidney Donation

Voucher Program