New Zealand: Govt to launch kidney exchange service

[Clark]

http://www.3news.co.nz/nznews/govt-to-launch-kidney-exchange-service-2014071810

Govt to launch kidney exchange service

An extra 100 people could receive kidney transplants over the next four years under a new donor service the Government is establishing.

Health Minister Tony Ryall says there's a serious shortage of kidneys - while there were around 110 transplants last year there are still more than 600 people waiting for a transplant.

A National Renal Transplant Service is being set up which will coordinate services across the country.

There will be a kidney exchange system allowing donors and recipients who are not compatible with each other to be listed for possible swaps with other pairs.

A $4 million campaign to raise awareness and encourage more people to donate organs is already under way.