Free Kidney For Sale? Substitution, the Shortage, and Procurement Policy

Authors

Matthew E. Allen, Saint John’s University

Abstract

From 1989 to 2003 kidney transplant waiting lists have grown 247%. The effect of this growth and advances in kidney transplant technology has caused a shortage of available organs and the death of thousands waiting for their transplant. Current procurement policy based on altruism has failed to increase the supply of kidneys, yet many consumers and professionals are opposed to a market based system. This paper will examine the current altruistic procurement policy as well as presumed consent and a hypothetical open market approach. With the use of data from the United Network of Organ Sharing and the United States Renal Data System, I will discuss the economic and moral dilemmas of the shortage and argue for a market based procurement policy.

Recommended Citation

Allen, Matthew E. (2006) "Free Kidney For Sale? Substitution, the Shortage, and Procurement Policy," Undergraduate Economic Review: Vol. 2: Iss. 1, Article 3.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.iwu.edu/uer/vol2/iss1/3