Frequently Asked Questions

The average wait time for a deceased donor kidney transplant is 3 to 5 years. The wait time for living donation transplant is much shorter, often only a few months, depending on how quickly the donor completes the required testing and evaluation process.

The cost of the surgery for the recipient is handled by their individual insurance provider. Our team of Financial Coordinators will complete a personalized assessment during the evaluation period and will make each patient aware of expected/anticipated costs. For living kidney donation, the cost of the surgery is covered under the recipient’s insurance.

The kidneys help the body filter and remove waste and fluid and excrete it in the form of urine. The kidneys also play an important role in helping to control blood pressure, make healthy red blood cels, keep bones strong and balance the chemicals that control acid levels in the body.

Kidney failure occurs when the kidneys can no longer effectively clean the blood and remove extra fluids from the body. As a result, waste builds up and treatment such as a kidney transplant or dialysis may be needed.

Dialysis only does about 10% of the work of a functioning kidney. Dialysis is unnatural and can be hard on the body, leading to other health problems. Patients who receive a kidney transplant typically live longer than those on long-term dialysis. A kidney transplant offers the potential for a longer, healthier and more productive life.

Talk with your doctor or nephrologist about whether a kidney transplant may be appropriate for you. In general, patients can qualify to be placed on the national waiting list when your kidneys are functioning at 20mg/dl or less (also known as your eGFR or GFR).

The kidney transplant team will perform a variety of tests to determine if you qualify for a transplant Testing includes blood testing, cancer screening, cardiac evaluation, and tests to look at your vessels. Your transplant coordinator will help guide you through the process and will keep you updated on your progress.

The evaluation is extensive and involves education, individualized assessment by members of our team, testing and screenings to determine candidacy. The testing involved and required is different for each patient, depending on their medical history.

Kidney transplants are routinely performed for patients between the ages of 18 and 80. For patients of advanced age, limits for transplantation are dependent on the patient’s health condition.

It is important to maintain your health while you wait for a donor. If that means doing dialysis, then ensuring you attend every treatment and stay for the full length of the treatment is important. It is important to stay as active as possible, following your doctor’s orders for taking medications and attending all medical appointments. You should also be in close contact with your transplant coordinator and notify them of any changes in your health.

Many patients report feeling significantly better after transplant surgery. Patients report increased energy levels, increased appetite (and the ability to be on a general diet), and increased quality of life! While every patient's experience is unique, many individuals are able to return to activities they enjoy and lead active, productive lives.

As a transplant recipient, your biggest responsibility will be taking medications as prescribed, every day. You will also be asked to attend all follow-up appointments after transplant and complete regular lab testing to ensure your kidney is functioning well.