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NOTE: As you, your physician, and family review this information, it is important that you understand that this information is for informational purposes only. It does not mean, nor does it imply, that a transplant is medically necessary, is medically appropriate for your condition, is a covered benefit, or meets your health plan criteria. Those decisions are rendered solely by your health benefit program sponsor.
National Transplant Programs The first national transplant program, or limited sized transplant network built on program performance, was established in the early 1980’s. After reviewing performance indicators from transplant centers across the country, healthcare analysts identified a significant statistical benefit from receiving transplants at medical centers with proven experience. Those medical centers now participate in many “Centers of Excellence" style programs and provide transplant care to people from all over the nation. Some people choose national transplant centers because there are no transplant centers in their area; others select these centers because of their proven performance and outcome statistics; and still others select them because they are a featured benefit in their health plan. National transplant centers have specialized Nurse Transplant Coordinators to help you and your family prepare to receive care at their medical center. If INTERLINK’s Transplant Network is a benefit offered by your health plan sponsor, we have transplant facility outcome information available to help you select the program that is right for you. Outcome data indicates it is important that you select a transplant program and team with proven outcomes. It is quite possible that the quality of transplant care you receive may significantly impact the quality of your life post-transplant. If you or your physician would like transplant outcome information about one or more medical centers in our network, please contact your care advocate. Although member service is important to INTERLINK, our connection to you is through your case manager. If you call INTERLINK directly, we will direct you back to your care advocate or health plan sponsor.
Checking Your Benefits It is advisable that you understand your health insurance benefits completely before accessing transplant related medical care. Most health plans have pre-certification programs, and once notified of your proposed treatment program, will closely monitor your care. Insurance companies and health plans often have care advocates who help coordinate care for people with complex medical needs. If you are fortunate enough to have access to a care advocate, he or she will be a valuable guide as you seek care and utilize your benefits.
Commonly Asked Questions Regarding Program Statistics
Regarding National Transplant Facilities
Regarding Organ Distribution
Additional Resources Finding useful information regarding transplant programs and outcomes is difficult, therefore INTERLINK has compiled a list of resources that are available to you via the internet. The list is not necessarily complete and INTERLINK does not endorse any of the organizations presented below. You should investigate any source of information carefully before making important decisions. The best source of information about transplantation is always the patient's physician and the physician’s support team at the transplant center. We strongly recommend that you refer to the website of the transplant center, as these websites frequently contain the most up to date list of housing options and other current information that will be of importance to the potential transplant candidate. Bone Marrow Transplantation
Solid Organ Transplantation
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