OPTN News

Browse the latest OPTN news below. Looking for an article from 1999 to 2022? View an OPTN news archive.

Steven Weitzen, JD, Joins the OPTN Board of Directors
On April 3, 2026, the OPTN Board voted to appoint Steven Weitzen, JD, as a Board Director, filling the vacancy created by the passing of Peter Nicastro.
Register Now: OPTN National Town Hall Meetings: April 28 & May 13
These town halls will provide updates on the current state of the OPTN, as well as ongoing modernization efforts to strengthen the system and improve patient outcomes.
Announcing the 2026 OPTN Board Officer Election Dates
The OPTN Board of Directors announces the upcoming national election for the Board Officer positions of Secretary and Vice President of Patient and Donor Affairs.
Discontinuation of COVID-Era Practice Regarding: Waitlist Screening Parameters

The Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN), in collaboration with the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), is notifying members that prior COVID-era guidance permitting the use of certain waitlist screening parameters to prevent organ offers is rescinded, effective immediately. 

A Message from the OPTN President: Moving Forward Together
A message from OPTN President John Magee acknowledging the challenges the OPTN Modernization effort is facing.
Updated Median MELD at Transplant Scores in Effect March 25; Median PELD at Transplant Score Unchanged
Effective March 25, 2026, the liver median MELD at transplant (MMaT) values have been updated for each donor hospital nationwide.
Memorial Hermann Hospital, University of Texas at Houston Reinstated as a Member in Good Standing Following Approval of OPTN Executive Committee
The OPTN Executive Committee approved the Membership and Professional Standards Committee’s (MPSC’s) recommendation to release Memorial Hermann Hospital, University of Texas at Houston (“Memorial Hermann”) from Member Not in Good Standing status.
December 2025 Board Actions Press Release
OPTN Board approves removal of OPTN guidance on shortages of pediatric mechanical circulatory support devices and extends the HIV Open Variance
Seeking Volunteers for Open Positions on OPTN Committees
The OPTN is currently seeking nominations for individuals to serve on OPTN committees.
Notice of Change in Monthly Routine Allocation Review

The Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) and Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) are committed to addressing organ allocation out of OPTN sequence (AOOS) in order to protect public trust, ensure adherence to OPTN policies, increase fairness, and uphold patient safety.