Organ Donation Boost: New Hubs Link Hospitals

Maharashtra is implementing a new model to bolster its organ transplant capabilities, designating public hospitals as either 'hubs' for transplants or 'spokes' for brain-death declarations and organ harvesting. This strategic network aims to improve coordination and patient access to services throughout the state.

Under this proposed system, six regional hubs are planned to connect spokes within their respective divisions, expanding transplant facilities to key centers including Pune, Amravati, Nashik, Thane, Mira-Bhayandar, and Mumbai. This expansion includes developing transplant centers in Nashik, complementing the existing facility in Amravati.

Health officials have directed enhancements to organ donation processes within public hospitals. This involves setting up dedicated counselling and guidance units, training specialist doctors, and conducting regular awareness drives and workshops. A bi-monthly review of brain-death cases across the state will also be instituted to foster a supportive environment for organ donation.