Hmm. The policy (ok, the law) of this land is that it is illegal to pay another human being to induce them to donate a kidney to you or to a loved one. That actually is a good idea, because otherwise not only would there be bidding wars for organs, but only the richer among us could probably arrange for transplants.
But, there are costs involved with donating a kidney, which cold make some folks wary of donating an organ. Besides wage losses (you won’t be able to work when you are in the hospital- or during your recuperation time), there may also be childcare costs, travel, lodging, not to mention drugs and medical care expenditures.
So, I was pleased to hear that Governor Kathy Hochul (the first woman governor of NY, by the way) has just signed the New York State Living Donor Support Act (S 1584/A and A/146/A). Assuming both the recipient and the donor are residents of the State of New York, the state will cover up to $ 10,000 of the associated costs for the donor. And, it seems that New York is the first state to provide such financial relief. (21 other states provide tax credits- which means one must be itemizing deductions; a practice that has dropped from some 85+% of taxpayers to closer to 10% [due to SALT (State and local tax) limitations and the combined total for deductions and personal exemptions.)
In addition, the provisions of the bill are to augment patient education regarding transplants; this is to be provided by nephrologists and primary care practitioners (PCP). As stated in a blog posted earlier this week, too many patients have very little- or no- information about the benefits (and potential problems) with renal transplants. (For example, many folks believe the mortality rate as a result of donor surgery is 1 in 20- but the real numbers are 1 in 3300.)
This is one way to cut the 13 deaths that occur daily because folks can’t get kidney transplant. And a way to cut the US backlog for renal transplants down from 91000 (7234 of that number are residents of New York State).
It’s good to be informed. Thank you.
Glad to oblige.
This fascinates me. I experienced kidney failure following my near death experience due to sepsis. It took me nearly twelve days to get back into healthy range, the whole time doctors were thinking I would have to get dialysis. I learned later what dialysis entails… so I am perpetually grateful my kidneys were restored.
This is important information which I hope spreads far and wide. Brava Governor Hochul!
I had a similar occurrence in March. Know the feelings!
That will certainly be helpful to the donors! 13 deaths daily while waiting? WOW
You bet, Martha