Improving fairness in organ transplant decisions for Black patients

Improving Racial Equity in Clinical Decision Making about Access to Organ Transplant

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-10874745

This study is looking into why Black patients often have a harder time getting organ transplants compared to white patients, and it aims to find ways to make sure everyone has a fair chance at receiving these life-saving treatments.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10874745 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the disparities in access to organ transplants for Black patients, who face significantly higher rates of end-stage organ disease compared to white patients. It aims to identify and address biases in the transplant selection process, which can vary across different centers and may be influenced by institutional racism. By analyzing electronic health records, the study will quantify racial inequities at various stages of the transplant process and develop a toolkit to promote equity in decision-making. The ultimate goal is to ensure that all patients have fair access to life-saving organ transplants.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Black patients who are facing end-stage organ disease and are seeking organ transplantation.

Not a fit: Patients who are not Black or do not have end-stage organ disease may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more equitable access to organ transplants for Black patients, improving their health outcomes and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that addressing biases in healthcare can lead to improved outcomes, suggesting that this approach has the potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Durham, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.