SCCM Podcast SCCMPod-547 CCM: Modern Data on Organ Donation Equity
Sep 23, 2025
James R. Rodrigue, a clinical psychologist and expert in transplantation, and Richard D. Hasz, a leader in organ procurement, discuss recent findings on racial equity in organ donation. They reveal how outdated data led to misconceptions about disparity in family approaches. Highlighting the role of standardized practices, they stress the significance of timely referrals and family communication during sensitive moments. They also advocate for integrating donor information into education systems to raise awareness, particularly among younger demographics.
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Career From Coordinator To OPO Leader
- Richard Hasz described starting in 1990 as a transplant coordinator responding to hospitals and families.
- He then advanced to lead a large OPO and emphasized lifelong focus on improving donation representation.
Old Data Misleading Current Claims
- Older studies reporting racial disparities in family approach used 25–30 year old data that reflected a different donation era.
- Current systems and regulations have changed substantially, so past conclusions may not apply today.
Regulatory Shift Changed Who Requests Donation
- Regulatory responsibility shifted in the late 1990s so OPOs, not hospitals, make the donation request.
- This structural change likely influences equity and standardized family approach practices.