Abolishing age criterion to determine organ transplant recipients in Israel: A qualitative study of medical staff perceptions

Introduction: Since April 2014 the age limitation on candidates listed for organ transplantation in Israel was abolished following the recommendations of a Public Committee. In this research the new policy was examined in light of scarce medical resources and the increased rate of aging in Israel. Methods: The opinions of twelve medical staff regarding the policy change were analyzed by a qualitative methodology, using semi-structured interviews. Results: Interviews with medical staff members revealed three main themes: 1. positive acceptance of the new policy; 2. concerns and problems regarding the change; and 3. the influence of the policy change on the organ transplant allocation system and patient-doctor relationships. Discussion and Conclusions: The medical staff expressed positive views towards the new policy, based on age-free, individually determined admission to transplant waiting lists. However, some concerns were raised regarding the medical implications of this policy, thus potentially hindering its full application.