A Market for Human Organs: An Ethical Solution to the Organ Shortage

Abstract

Over 120,000 people are waiting for an organ transplant. Twenty-one Americans die each day waiting for an organ. This problem is not unique to the United States. Although technological advancements will likely end the organ shortage one day, technological solutions to the shortage are likely decades away. An organ market is the only solution currently available to the organ shortage. The human organ market is almost universally condemned for ethical reasons. However, the ethical objections to a market do not withstand scrutiny. Only one nation allows individuals to sell their kidneys, and this is the only nation to eliminate its kidney waiting list. Moreover, the poor and middle classes have greater access to kidneys in this nation than any other country. This nation is Iran. The United States should recognize the success of Iran's kidney system and implement an organ market. Creating an organ market in the United States only requires a few changes to the current organ procurement system. Most importantly, a market will improve health outcomes for those in need of organs and likely reduce healthcare costs as well.