Story perspectives

New CMS Rules Aim to Boost Organ Donations and Accountability

1/29/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) proposed new rules to strengthen oversight of organ procurement organizations (OPOs) and expand the use of less-than-perfect organs.
The rules define unsound medical practices and increase accountability for OPOs.
The proposal follows reports that undermined public confidence in organ donation, causing many to withdraw from donor lists.
More than 100,000 people await transplants, primarily kidneys.

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Story summary

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) proposed new rules to strengthen oversight of organ procurement organizations (OPOs) and expand the use of less-than-perfect organs.
The rules define unsound medical practices and increase accountability for OPOs.
The proposal follows reports that undermined public confidence in organ donation, causing many to withdraw from donor lists.
More than 100,000 people await transplants, primarily kidneys.