The OPTN
The Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) is a unique public-private partnership that links all professionals involved in the U.S. donation and transplantation system. Also crucial to the system are individuals who sign organ donor cards, people who comment on policy proposals and countless volunteers who support donation and transplantation, among many others.
A driving force of the OPTN is to improve the U.S. system so that more life-saving organs are available for transplant. Patient safety is at the forefront of activities at transplant hospitals, organ procurement organizations (OPOs) and labs.
The OPTN acts through its Board of Directors and committees, who bring a wealth of commitment and technical knowledge to guide us. Committees address issues of concern in the transplant community. The board establishes and maintains transplant policies (operational rules) and bylaws (membership requirements) that govern the OPTN.
Volunteer with the OPTN
Share your time and expertise to help the donation and transplant community save and enhance lives. Join the more than 300 volunteers who help shape OPTN policies and continuously improve the nation’s transplant system.
Apply to become a volunteerOPTN Contractor
United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) was awarded the initial OPTN contract on September 30, 1986, and continues to administer the OPTN today.
Explore this section
Learn more about the OPTN:
WHAT IS THE OPTN?
OPTN MEMBERSHIP
GOVERNANCE
As of May 25, 2022, OPTN membership included the following:
Click on the member type to search for individual members.
Type of OPTN Member | Number |
---|---|
Transplant Centers | 252 |
Organ Procurement Organizations ![]() |
57 |
Independent | 50 |
Hospital Based | 7 |
Histocompatibility Laboratories ![]() |
140 |
Independent | 49 |
Hospital Based | 91 |
Public Organizations | 8 |
Individual Members | 9 |
Medical Scientific Organizations | 10 |
Business Members | 13 |
Total | 391 |
