As a non-directed altruistic kidney donor, who is lucky enough not to need compensation, I think compensation is a logical method to help correct the disequilibrium between the demand and supply of living kidneys for transplantation. There is economic aspect to this problem. As with most supply/demand issues, adjusting barriers and/or insentivizing potential donors is sensible. The direct benefits to both the recipient and to the entire health care system is apparent - dialysis expenses eliminated, full productivity for the recipient, etc. Why not do this? Also please consider reduction in the donor's Medicare expenses if direct cash payments are upsetting.
As a non-directed altruistic kidney donor, who is lucky enough not to need compensation, I think compensation is a logical method to help correct the disequilibrium between the demand and supply of living kidneys for transplantation. There is economic aspect to this problem. As with most supply/demand issues, adjusting barriers and/or insentivizing potential donors is sensible. The direct benefits to both the recipient and to the entire health care system is apparent - dialysis expenses eliminated, full productivity for the recipient, etc. Why not do this? Also please consider reduction in the donor's Medicare expenses if direct cash payments are upsetting.