Hospital Seeks Waiver to Ditch Usual Organ Donation Partners
Published Date: 2/18/2026
Notice
Summary
A hospital has asked for a special waiver so it doesn’t have to work with its usual organ donation group. This could change how organ donations are managed in that area, and the public is invited to share their thoughts by April 20, 2026. If approved, this might affect hospitals, organ groups, and patients waiting for transplants.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Local Hospital Seeks OPO Waiver
Wilkes Regional Medical Center (WRMC) in North Wilkesboro, NC, asked CMS for a waiver to work with LifeShare Carolinas instead of its designated OPO, HonorBridge. The public may submit comments on that request by April 20, 2026. If approved, organ donation management in that local service area could change for hospitals, OPOs, and patients waiting for transplants.
Statutory Criteria Allow OPO Waivers
Under section 1138(a)(2) of the Social Security Act, the Secretary must grant a hospital's waiver request if the waiver is expected to increase organ donations and ensure equitable treatment of patients; the Secretary may consider factors like cost effectiveness and quality improvements. Hospitals that participate in Medicare and Medicaid may submit such waiver requests and CMS will review public comments before deciding.
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Key Dates
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