Current circumstances and challenges of organ transplant coordinators in Japan

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to determine the current circumstances and challenges facing the Certified Procurement Transplant Coordinator (CPTC) system in Japan and to identify areas for improvement.
Materials and Methods: A questionnaire survey was conducted of 35 practicing CPTCs, 7 former CPTCs, and Organ Transplant Service Officers (OTSOs) in 20 prefectures of Japan.
Results: Practicing CPTCs responded that they felt "anxious about the CPTC employment system", perceived a "lack of experience based on regional disparities in numbers of organ donors", and wanted to see "improvements in the CPTC training program". These responses were similar to the reasons for resignation provided by former CPTCs. OTSOs responded that they "do not approve" of their current Organ Transplant Support Project (OTSP) and that there were no evaluation criteria in place to help convince the government to provide project funding.
Conclusion: A CPTC training program that guarantees the status of CPTCs in Japan and reflects current regional circumstances such as numbers of organ donors needs to be established.