AUTHOR=Cowie Sandra , Choy Seow-Huey , Shah Diana Mohd , Gomez Maria Paula , Yoong Boon-Koon , Koong Jun-Kit 

TITLE=Healthcare System Impact on Deceased Organ Donation and Transplantation: A Comparison Between the Top 10 Organ Donor Countries With 4 Countries in Southeast Asia

JOURNAL=Transplant International

VOLUME=Volume 36 - 2023

YEAR=2023

URL=https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/journals/transplant-international/articles/10.3389/ti.2023.11233

DOI=10.3389/ti.2023.11233

ISSN=1432-2277

ABSTRACT=The need for organ donation is increasing. Some countries have made improvements in deceased organ donation, while others, in Southeast Asia (SEA), have some of the lowest rates of actual deceased donors (pmp). This review compares 14 countries with regards to many variables related to healthcare systems. Results: Countries leading in deceased organ donation spend more on health and education, which is associated with increased potential for deceased organ donation. Out-of-pocket expenditure is associated with a decrease in deceased organ donation. Countries in SEA are lacking in healthcare resources such as workforce and materials, which are necessary for a successful transplant program. Countries in SEA, face more prominent issues such high infant and maternal mortality as well as low immunization rates. Most countries in SEA have an excellent foundation for successful organ donation systems, including proper legislation, government support, and brain death laws. Priorities should include improving coordination, donor identification, and healthcare worker education. Conclusion: Countries in SEA have a lot of potential to increase deceased organ donation, especially by investing in healthcare and education. There is no one size fits all for organ donation programs and countries should focus on their strengths and consider cultural differences when planning interventions.