13. Follow-up Appointments

The Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) requires donors and transplant centers alike to participate in follow-up appointments to ensure the ongoing well-being of the donor. If you choose to have your primary-care physician conduct these follow-up tests, we ask you to let us know so we may get their results for our records.

Timeline

Appointment Schedule

OPTN requires donors to have follow-up appointments 2 weeks after surgery, then again at 6 months, 12 months, and 24 months. Lahey also recommends you get physical checkups every year after the 24-month follow-up appointment.

Financial Caveat

The recipient's insurance will cover all of the donor’s costs, including routine post-donation clinical care. However, some policies only pay up to a specific time after the surgery. As a result, some follow-up visits may not be covered. Make sure you talk to Lahey’s financial coordinator beforehand so you’re aware of what costs you may incur.