Presented at the 30th annual conference of the International System Dynamics Society St. Gallen Switzerland, July 22-26, 2012 Deceased Donor Potential for Organ Transplantation: A System Dynamics Framework

摘要

Organ transplantation is a lifesaving procedure for many people. However, the lack of organs from deceased donors makes it unavailable for many additional people who need it. A commissioned study was undertaken to estimate deceased donor potential in the US. Organ procurement and transplantation take place in the context of a complex system of organizations and policies. This system can both constrain and enhance the realization of deceased donor potential. A system dynamics model is being developed to help identify how that system's behavior affects the availability of deceased donor organs and how particular strategic policy options might increase the number available for transplantation. The version described in this paper utilizes data for kidney procurement and transplantation for the entire US. The structure and data sources for the model are described along with illustrative tests of those strategic options.