OPTN requirements to be amended regarding HOPE Act provisions

Published on: Friday, January 10, 2025

In a recently published notice in the Federal Register, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) directed the OPTN to adopt and use standards of quality to allow transplantation of kidneys and livers from donors with HIV to people living with HIV, beyond the clinical research protocols laid out in the HIV Organ Policy Equity (HOPE) Act. Over the next few weeks, relevant committees and the OPTN Board of Directors will update these requirements on an expedited basis pursuant to HHS’ direction.

As of this time, current requirements for OPTN member institutions under the HOPE Act remain in effect until the OPTN develops new criteria and standards consistent with HHS’ directive. We will inform you further when new requirements will be in effect.

Resources regarding the HOPE Act, and OPTN requirements relating to it, are available on the HOPE Act page on the OPTN website. They will be updated to reflect new processes as they are determined.