I came across an interesting article at EurekAlert.org today.

Apparently, most altruistic kidney donors end up out of pocket by their generous act.

Generally, the medical costs are covered by private or public insurance, but there are other costs involved, such as travel and convalescence.

This seems crazy, and would act as a major disincentive to potential donors.

“Here, slice me up, take one of my major organs, then stitch me up - oh, and here’s my credit card, charge me a couple of grand whilst you’re at it”

I don’t think so!

I think that governments should offer financial incentives to potential organ donors. Not just to ensure that the act doesn’t cost them money, but to be of actual financial benefit to the donor. With the cost of dialysis rapidly spiralling out of control, this would actually be of long term financial benefit to the country.