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Should Transplantation Be Offered to Pediatric Foreign Nationals?

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Ethical Issues in Pediatric Organ Transplantation

Abstract

The provision of medical care, and particularly organ transplantation, to foreign nationals (i.e. non-citizens and non-residents) is a matter of heated debate in many countries. Worldwide, the practices regarding the provision of transplantation services to foreign nationals vary enormously. Developed countries with transplant programs often receive requests to list foreign nationals for transplantation. This chapter will explore (1) international practices and policies, (2) arguments for and against transplantation for foreign nationals, (3) whether or not there are morally relevant distinctions between children and adult foreign nationals, and (4) whether or not there are morally relevant distinctions between life-saving (e.g. heart) and life-enhancing organ (e.g. kidney) transplants. We will suggest guidance and possible options for policy makers on listing children who are foreign nationals for transplantation.

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Fortin, MC., Greenberg, R.A. (2016). Should Transplantation Be Offered to Pediatric Foreign Nationals?. In: Greenberg, R., Goldberg, A., Rodríguez-Arias, D. (eds) Ethical Issues in Pediatric Organ Transplantation. International Library of Ethics, Law, and the New Medicine, vol 66. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-29185-7_13

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