Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network
The Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) is a national system in the United States that manages the allocation of organs for transplantation. Established in 1984, it aims to ensure that all patients have equitable access to organ transplants, regardless of their location or background. The network operates under the guidance of the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), which oversees the matching of donors and recipients.
OPTN maintains a comprehensive database that tracks organ donations and transplants across the country. It sets policies and standards for organ procurement organizations and transplant centers, ensuring that the process is fair and efficient. By coordinating efforts among various stakeholders, OPTN helps save lives through successful organ transplantation.