#USA #Greenwich #Transplant Services #OPTN Policy #Kidney Registry

National Kidney and National Liver Registries Host Informative Webinar on New Testing Policy

On July 30, 2026, over 200 representatives from transplant centers convened in a special webinar led by the National Kidney Registry and the National Liver Registry. This event was designed to prepare both member and non-member transplant centers for an important shift in serology testing protocols mandated by the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN).

Understanding the New OPTN Serology Testing Requirements

The newly established OPTN policy institutes a significantly tighter serology testing window for critical diseases such as HIV and West Nile Virus, reducing it to just seven days. This change is a response to the urgent need for faster testing to enhance the safety and efficiency of organ transplants.

Garet Hil, CEO of the National Kidney Registry, emphasized the organization's commitment to high-quality patient care. During the webinar, he stated, “We have invested substantial resources into creating our Streamlined Serology Service, which represents one of the most advanced options available for organ transplant centers.” This service is specifically designed to meet the new testing timeframe without compromising the scheduling of surgeries.

Streamlined Serology Services: How They Benefit Transplant Centers

The webinar showcased several advantages of the newly designed Streamlined Serology Services, based on feedback from various member centers. Key features include:

• - Accelerated Results: Testing results will be available within two days of the donor's blood draw, allowing centers to comply with the new OPTN timelines.
• - Emergency Courier Services: A complimentary courier service for urgent blood draw shipments ensures that timely testing is maintained.
• - Automated Processes: Results will be automatically uploaded and distributed to both donor and recipient centers, streamlining communication and data management.
• - 24/7 Operational Support: The dedicated Operations Team is available around the clock to manage testing and inquiries.
• - Comprehensive Testing Options: The service provides access to up to 17 different infectious disease tests, ensuring thorough screening.
• - Convenient Testing Kits: Automatic shipment of testing kits to donors or centers simplifies the collection process.

To ensure transplant centers can successfully transition to this new protocol, the National Kidney Registry and National Liver Registry will begin implementing the seven-day testing process on August 10, 2026, just one week ahead of the official OPTN policy effective date of August 17, 2026.

Expanding Access to Non-Member Centers

Notably, the Streamlined Serology Service is not limited to member institutions; it is also open to all non-member transplant centers. This expansion includes a full suite of 17 serology and final crossmatch tests, ensuring that all kidney and liver donation processes adhere to the new seven-day deadline. Transplant centers that require support in meeting this timeline are encouraged to reach out to the National Kidney Registry or National Liver Registry for additional guidance and resources.

Looking forward, the next webinar is scheduled for August 5, 2026, furthering the ongoing dialogue and readiness specific to the upcoming changes in transplant serology testing protocols.

About the National Kidney Registry and National Liver Registry

The National Kidney Registry is dedicated to saving and improving lives of individuals facing kidney failure by enhancing the quality and speed of living donor transplants while ensuring the safety of all living donors. Annually, approximately 30% of living donor kidney transplants in the United States are facilitated through this organization. The National Liver Registry shares a similar mission, focusing on liver transplants and supporting living donors effectively.

For more information about their services and initiatives, visit National Kidney Registry and National Liver Registry.