Introduction: Despite a slightly positive increase in the number of organs from deceased donors during the last decade, the shortage of organs remains insufficient to meet the need of all patients requiring a transplant. The growing and aging population further increases the demand. To address these challenges, the Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare was commissioned to develop a National action plan for organ and tissue donation and transplantation for 2026–2030. The plan aims to coordinate and support the donation and transplantation field, to ensure that more patients receive a transplant.
Method: The action plan was developed through broad national collaboration, involving stakeholders from healthcare organisations as well as healthcare managers and different experts in the field of organ donation and transplantation. Several national congresses and workshops were held in all healthcare regions, to identify and formulate proposals and initiatives. The plan outlines the background, fundamental prerequisites, prioritised focus areas and specific actions on a national, regional and local level, with clear assignment of responsibility for the implementation.
Results: The action plan outlines several fundamental aspects essential for increasing the potential of donation and transplantation services. These include a high willingness to donate among the population, integration of organ donation into end-of-life care, clear governance, and adequate knowledge and competence. In order to address the current challenges in Sweden, the action plan includes four areas of priority: Improved organisation and structure, identification of potential donors outside the intensive care units, increased knowledge amongst health care personnel, and enhanced follow-up of results and data analysis. Within these areas, 26 actions were outlined, for example:
- To establish regional donation centres in all six collaboration health care regions.
- Conduct national information campaigns, to increase public awareness about donation and transplantation considering age, language and cultural aspects.
Conclusion: The action plan provides a comprehensive framework to strengthen organ donation and transplantation services in Sweden. It highlights key challenges, describes the areas that need to be addressed, clarifies responsibilities and presents targeted actions, aiming to increase the number of donors and transplants. Furthermore, it promotes equal care to strive for all patients in need will be offered a transplantation. The implementation of the National action plan is crucial and depends on continuous efforts and collaboration amongst the stakeholders. All parties involved need to take action and cooperate, to ultimately improve outcomes for both patients and society.