Resources

Published 1 October 2025

• OPTN Comment

The International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) welcomes the opportunity to review the OPTN Proposal "Require Patient Notification for Waitlist Status Changes.”

We support the implementation of a requirement to notify patients of waitlist status changes. Verbal notification with documentation in the patient’s record is both sufficient and appropriate. This approach allows for real dialogue with the patient—an opportunity to explain the reason for the decision, answer questions, and outline next steps—rather than relying solely on a letter.

We do not believe the requirement for notification poses an undue burden on transplant programs.

To further strengthen the policy, we recommend the following:

• Offer electronic methods of communication (e.g., email or EMR-based secure messaging) as options, since these may be preferred by some patients.
• Provide initial verbal or electronic notification within 48–72 hours, followed by written notice within 10 days of the status change, if needed.
• Ensure notifications are communicated in plain language and, where needed, include translation and interpreter services for non-English speakers.
• Include a clear explanation of the reason for the status change, the plan and follow-up steps required for the patient to return to or maintain active status, and the contact details of the care team to support timely resolution.
• Develop standardized notification templates to reduce administrative burden and ensure clarity.

This policy also has the potential to reduce inequities by ensuring that all candidates—including those from historically disadvantaged groups—are aware of their status.