Andhra Pradesh to expand organ transplant services across 12 teaching hospitals

The Andhra Pradesh government has announced a phased action plan to develop 12 government teaching hospitals into full-fledged organ transplant centres, aiming to make advanced treatment accessible to economically weaker sections. Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav made the announcement at the State-level National Organ Donation Day awareness programme, organised by Jeevandan at the Andhra University Convention Centre in Visakhapatnam on Sunday.

Mr. Satya Kumar said the initiative would reduce dependence on private hospitals and ensure that patients awaiting organ transplants can receive treatment through the public healthcare system. He revealed that 5,935 patients in the State are currently waiting for various organ transplants. He urged families to discuss organ donation and communicate their wishes in advance, noting that organs from a single deceased donor can save up to eight lives.

To improve access for poor patients, the government proposed to establish organ retrieval centres in all 12 teaching hospitals. In the first phase, kidney transplant services will be expanded at teaching hospitals in Visakhapatnam, Palasa, Kurnool, Vijayawada, Guntur, Tirupati, and Kakinada. The government is also examining the feasibility of introducing liver transplant services by 2028 and heart transplant services in Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, and Kurnool by 2030.

The Minister noted that the number of organ transplant centres in Andhra Pradesh has increased from three to nine since the coalition government assumed office. The long-term objective is to provide comprehensive transplant services in all 12 teaching hospitals.

Addressing financial support for donor families, Mr. Satya Kumar said the government currently provides ₹10,000 towards funeral expenses. A proposal has been submitted to Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu to increase the assistance to ₹1 lakh. Requests seeking contractual employment or pension support for eligible donor families are also under the government’s consideration.

Olympic medallist and badminton player P.V. Sindhu, who attended the programme, described organ donation as the highest tribute to life. She said the courage shown by families who consented to organ donation despite personal loss is an inspiration. She urged people, particularly the youth, to register on the Jeevandan portal and pledge to donate their organs.

Jeevandan, the State’s organ donation programme, has been instrumental in coordinating transplant activities across Andhra Pradesh. The awareness programme on National Organ Donation Day aims to highlight the importance of organ donation and encourage more families to take the pledge.

With the expansion of services in government hospitals, the State hopes to address the growing demand for organ transplants and reduce the financial burden on patients. The phased implementation will be monitored closely to ensure that infrastructure, skilled manpower, and equipment are in place before each centre becomes fully operational.