transplant referral

[zona]

It has been over a week since my referral has been sent to the transplant team and I have heard nothing. I am getting nervous.What are some of the reasons I would be turned down.

[iketchum]

The doctors at my transplant center had to get the team together and go over all the new cases that want transplants. When they are done with the selection they call you in and do a few more tests then may put you on a list.

[okarol]

I would call and check the status. Ask what the process is and when you can expect to be evaluated. We never had to have a referral for Jenna, just contacted the transplant centers directly.

[Wallyz]

It is my experience that transplant centers suck at communication with patients.  You need to call, call again, and keep calling until you get an answer.

[Chris]

I never needed a referral to get the process going. I caaled the transplant centers, went to their seminars about transplantation and the first center I choose got the ball rolling by calling my doctors and dialysis center.

But the transplant process is not something quick and simple. Many people are going in to request transplants (not just kidney) and a committe is set up and at a set time maybe once a month or every other week to go over all the applicants. However as stated, give your center a call and  ask questions. Ask if they have a seminar to go over their transplant process,survival rates, medications used, and so forth. If you can, check out another transplant center if another one is nearby to compare notes. Start making a list of questions you may have.

[paris]

The three transplant centers I have talked with or been listed at, have transplant commitees that meet once a month to go over potential listees. But, first you go through lots of testing -- and then more testing.   Nothing is quick with any of the evaluation process.    Have you been given a transplant co-ordinators name?  You will have to make lots of calls to the center to see how things are progressing.   My experience is similar to Chris's.  I had to make the initial call, my neph sent my medical records. Then I went to an orientation and after that the tests started.  That was almost four years ago---still waiting and I still call to make sure things are still on track.  Good luck and one thing you will learn with all of this is patience   

[zona]

Thanks guys, I called the cordinator today and left a message and am waiting for a call back. Paitience is not my strong suit but I will try! LoL!

[Sunny]

At my transplant center they only meet once a month to discuss applicants.
Calling them was a good idea and a good way to ease your worries. If you don't hear from them within a couple days, call again.

[kellyt]

Yes, always call and check for yourself.  I learned that with my clinic.  They get busy or whatever.  You aren't bugging them.  They are working for you!!!   Good Luck!   Is this to start the testing process to get you on "the list"?

[zona]

This is just to start the testing process. As far as I know I am otherwise healthy except for the weight issues,I have gained so much over the past year. Is there a limit on weight when being considered for transplant?

[kellyt]

Not so much a weight limit as a BMI limit.  Or at least that's how it was at my clinic.  My BMI max was 4 (which is high).