Referral Process

You can call (800) 749-7424 ext 5-0254 to make a referral to the kidney transplant program at the Shands Transplant Center at the University of Florida.

A kidney transplant becomes an option when end-stage renal disease (ESRD) is not correctable by more conservative measures. While most individuals presenting for renal transplantation will already be on dialysis, some individuals who have compromised renal function and who are approaching ESRD may choose to be transplanted so that they do not have to be dialyzed.

It is important for the transplant team to know as much as possible about each potential kidney transplant candidate. A specific referral is required for each potential candidate. All referrals must be done under the direction of a patient's kidney doctor or primary doctor. To refer a potential transplant candidate we require a history and physical, most current labs and insurance information be mailed, sent or faxed to the pretransplant office.

The following information will be helpful in evaluating potential candidates and may prevent duplication of tests if it is available:

Chest X-ray, EKG and history with physical - all within the past 6 months
Renal and liver labs and CBC with differential within the past month
Results of HBsAb, HBsAg, HepC, HIV and VDRL or RPR within the past three months
Dobutamine stress echo or cardiac cath results for: patients with diabetes, hypertension for more than seven years, patients with a history of cardiac problems or peripheral vascular disease
GI consult for patients with a history of peptic ulcer disease or GI bleed
Any consults obtained for specific medical or psychological problems
Copy of insurance cards (front and back)

After a referral is received, the information is given to the transplant financial counselor who contacts the patient and their insurance provider to verify transplant coverage. After insurance coverage is verified the patient is scheduled for an outpatient evaluation.

Statistics
Success rate and various other statistics regarding the Shands Transplant Center at UF are available from the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients at ustransplant.org.

Information
If you have any questions about the kidney transplantation program at the Shands Transplant Center at the University of Florida, call (352) 265-0254.

Transplant Navigation

Heart and Lung Transplant

Kidney Transplant Navigation

Discharge after transplantation

Make an Appointment

To make an appointment or find out more information about transplant services offered at Shands at the University of Florida, please call 352.265.8000 or toll-free 1.800.749.7424

You may also email our Consultation Center (consult@shands.ufl.edu) or use our secure online form.