Policy and the Supply of Transplantable Organs

Blank, Zachary

Policy and the Supply of Transplantable Organs

Persistent URL

http://hdl.handle.net/10456/42648

Author(s)

Blank, Zachary

Date Issued

April 7, 2017

Abstract

With advances in modern technology, specifically the invention of immunosuppressive therapy, transplanted organs are less likely to be rejected, making the process less dangerous for the patient. In the U.S., the gap between supply and demand is growing, causing economists, policymakers, and doctors to consider different policies in order to increase organ supply. These policies include changes in legislation, educational efforts, and the creation of an organ market. In this paper, I examine what options are out there in order to make a recommendation for the U.S. based on economic theory, data, and surveys. Based on statistical tests, case studies, and economic theory, I recommend that the U.S. approaches organ donation from an educational standpoint because the research shows that preferences toward organ donation greatly affect public opinion on the matter. From here the legislative model must be adjusted in order to make registering as an organ donor easier and more accessible.

Major

Economics

First Reader(s)

Nonnenmacher, Tomas W.