Eligibility & Screening
Explore the steps to living donation! Becoming a living kidney donor is one of the most generous gifts a person can give. While not everyone will qualify, many people are surprised to learn they may be eligible. The process is designed to make sure donation is safe for the donor as well as life-changing for the recipient.
Eligibility & Screening
Explore the steps to living donation! Becoming a living kidney donor is one of the most generous gifts a person can give. While not everyone will qualify, many people are surprised to learn they may be eligible. The process is designed to make sure donation is safe for the donor as well as life-changing for the recipient.
Most healthy adults between the ages of 18 and 65 may be eligible to donate a kidney. Living donation isn’t for everyone, but you might be surprised at how many people qualify. Medical professionals carefully evaluate each potential donor to ensure their safety comes first.
The Screening Process
The screening process ensures your health, safety, and comfort every step of the way. You can choose to stop at any time, and there’s never any obligation to continue.
Even if you’re not a match for Todd, your willingness could help him through a paired exchange program or inspire someone else to step forward.
Initial Health Questionnaire
A short online or phone survey asks about your age, health history, and lifestyle. It helps determine if you meet basic medical requirements.
Preliminary Blood and Urine Testing
Tests check your kidney function, blood type, and overall health.
Blood type compatibility (A, B, AB, O) helps determine if you could be a match.
Even if you’re not a direct match, paired donation programs can help.
Comprehensive Medical Evaluation
You’ll visit a transplant center for a full-day or multi-day evaluation, which includes:
Physical exam by a transplant nephrologist or surgeon
Imaging (CT or MRI scan) to look at kidney size and structure
EKG and chest X-ray to assess heart and lung health
Additional lab work for infection screening and metabolic health
Psychosocial and Emotional Evaluation
A social worker or psychologist discusses your motivations, stress level, and support system.
You’ll have the chance to ask questions, express concerns, and review risks and benefits.
Independent Donor Advocate Review
Every donor is assigned an Independent Donor Advocate (IDA)—a professional who represents your interests only.
They ensure your decision is fully informed, voluntary, and free from pressure.
Matching and Decision
If you’re a compatible match, you’ll discuss surgery timing with the transplant team.
If not, you may still participate in a kidney exchange or paired donation program, where your kidney helps another recipient while Todd receives one from a different donor.
Surgery and Recovery
Surgery is typically laparoscopic and lasts about 2–3 hours.
Most donors stay in the hospital 2–4 days and return to work in 2-3 weeks unless your job is physically demanding
You’ll have follow-up appointments at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years post-surgery.
Start the Conversation
Interested in learning more about the donation process? Todd’s transplant team has a dedicated coordinator to answer your questions, explain next steps, and help you explore whether living donation might be right for you.
Reaching out is simple, private, and doesn’t commit you to anything - it’s just the first step toward getting the facts.
Start the Conversation
Interested in learning more about the donation process? Todd’s transplant team has a dedicated coordinator to answer your questions, explain next steps, and help you explore whether living donation might be right for you.
Reaching out is simple, private, and doesn’t commit you to anything - it’s just the first step toward getting the facts.