If You Ever Consider Living Donation

Step One: Information, Not Commitment

The first step is simply to learn. Transplant centers, the National Kidney Foundation, and similar organizations offer resources for potential donors. You can read, watch, and ask questions without any obligation. Many people explore for months or years before deciding. There is no pressure to proceed.

If you are considering donation to a specific person (directed donation), you would typically contact that person’s transplant center. For anonymous donation, you would reach out to a transplant program that performs non-directed living donor transplants. Not all centers do; a quick search or phone call can clarify.

What Screening Involves

Screening is thorough. It includes blood tests, imaging, and a full medical history. The goal is to ensure you are healthy enough to donate and that your remaining kidney will serve you well for life. You will also meet with a donor advocate or independent assessor—someone whose job is to represent your interests, not the recipient’s. They will ensure you understand the risks and that you are acting voluntarily.

You can withdraw at any time. Your decision is confidential. The transplant team will not pressure you to proceed if you have doubts.

The Ethics Committee

Many programs require approval from an ethics committee or similar body before accepting an anonymous donor. This adds a layer of protection. The committee reviews your motivation, understanding, and support system. Their role is to safeguard you—not to block donation, but to ensure it is right for you.

Exploring donation does not mean you must donate. It means you are gathering the information you need to make an informed choice. The system is designed to support that—and to protect you every step of the way.