Kidney evaluation for transplant

Being referred for a kidney transplant evaluation can bring hope, questions, and uncertainty. The evaluation is not a test you pass or fail—it is a careful process that helps the transplant center understand your health, needs, and support system so a transplant can be as safe and successful as possible.

The Liver Hope Foundation supports patients in Henderson, Nevada, and beyond as they prepare for this next step. Your evaluation and appointment are completed through a transplant center, not through The Liver Hope Foundation. If the team finds a health concern that needs attention first, it often means there is another step to take before moving forward—not that your transplant journey has ended.

Frequently asked questions

Learn what to expect during a kidney transplant evaluation, how to prepare, and how caregivers can help. Your transplant center will provide its own requirements and medical guidance; this information is designed to help you arrive informed and organized.

What happens during a kidney transplant evaluation?

A transplant center usually begins with an orientation about kidney transplant, including its benefits, risks, and responsibilities. The evaluation may include blood work, heart testing, imaging, cancer screenings, and other tests based on your health history. You may also meet with a transplant surgeon, nephrologist, social worker, dietitian, financial coordinator, and sometimes a psychologist. The transplant committee then reviews the information and decides whether to approve you or recommend next steps.

What should I bring or prepare for my evaluation?

Bring an up-to-date medication list, your medical history, insurance information, and written questions for the transplant team. It is also helpful to bring the names of any potential living donors and to ask a caregiver or support person to attend when possible. Use our free checklist to organize these items before your appointment.

What if I am not approved right away?

Not being approved immediately does not always mean you cannot receive a transplant. The team may ask you to complete more testing, treat an infection or another health concern, make a health change, or strengthen your support plan. Ask the transplant center to explain what is needed and whether you can be reconsidered after those steps are complete.

Why are there so many tests? Does that mean something is wrong?

These tests are a routine part of transplant evaluation. They help the team identify health issues that could affect surgery, recovery, or the medicines used after transplant. The goal is to protect your health and plan the safest possible care—not to assume that something is wrong.

Why does a caregiver need to be involved?

After transplant, you will need help with transportation, medications, appointments, meals, and daily recovery tasks. A caregiver or reliable support person is an important part of the plan. If you do not have someone who can help, tell the transplant center early. A social worker may be able to discuss resources and options with you.

Can I afford a kidney transplant evaluation and transplant?

Costs and coverage vary by insurance plan and transplant center. A financial coordinator can explain your expected insurance coverage, out-of-pocket costs, medication expenses, and possible financial resources. Bring your insurance information and ask for a clear explanation before making assumptions about cost.

How long does the evaluation process take?

Timing differs for every person. It can depend on how quickly appointments and testing can be completed, whether additional care is needed, insurance authorization, and the transplant center’s review schedule. Your transplant coordinator can give you the most accurate timeline for your situation.

Will my age, weight, or other health conditions prevent me from getting a transplant?

Each transplant center considers the whole person, including overall health, medical conditions, ability to recover from surgery, and commitment to follow-up care. Age alone is not the only factor. Weight and other conditions may lead to recommendations for treatment or health changes before listing. Ask the center what applies to you and what steps could help you move forward.

Should I ask someone about living kidney donation?

A living donor may be a family member, friend, coworker, or another person who chooses to be evaluated. It can feel difficult to start the conversation. You can share that donation is voluntary and that interested people will receive private information and evaluation from the transplant center. The center can explain its living-donor process and may offer resources for discussing donation.

Prepare for your transplant center appointment

Take the next step with a free kidney transplant evaluation checklist from The Liver Hope Foundation. Gather your documents, identify a caregiver, and write down your questions before you meet with the transplant team. Please schedule your evaluation directly with your transplant center.