Identifying and Addressing the Educational Needs of Patients from Marginalized Groups on Less-than-ideal Kidneys
There are more patients waiting for a kidney transplant than available organs. Meanwhile, many deceased donor kidneys are not used and discarded, often because of the donor's age or underlying health conditions such as high blood pressure. While these kidneys are not expected to last as long as standard donor organs, expanding their use could benefit some patients and increase access to transplantation.
To participate in decision-making about organ offers, patients require educational tools that provide clear information in an accessible and respectful manner. To ensure such tools promote equitable access to kidney transplants, the input of patients from Indigenous and historically marginalized groups is crucial.
The purpose of this study is to gather perspectives from kidney transplant candidates and recipients, as well as caregivers, from Indigenous or historically marginalized groups, on the use of less-than-ideal or expanded criteria kidneys. Qualitative, semi-structured interviews will cover topics including lived experience, shared-decision making, perceptions of less-than-ideal or expanded criteria kidneys, and recommendations for educational strategies.
