Donor Network of Arizona and the University of Arizona are partnering on a new research initiative focused on better understanding the challenges and opportunities surrounding neonatal organ and tissue donation. The study seeks input from organ procurement organization professionals nationwide to help strengthen protocols, provider education, and family support practices.
In the delicate space between a family’s loss and the potential for a lifesaving legacy, OPO professionals play a vital role. For parents facing the loss of a newborn, the opportunity to donate can offer meaning and purpose during an extraordinarily difficult time. Yet neonatal donation is not always realized due to systemic barriers and a lack of standardized guidance for assessing suitability and counseling families.
This questionnaire-based study aims to identify barriers and inform improvements in neonatal donation protocols. Insights gathered will help equip pediatric and obstetric providers with clearer guidance and practical tools to support grieving families with compassion and clarity.
Study Details
- Purpose: The goal is to increase awareness of neonatal organ and tissue donation among providers in pediatrics and obstetrics. We would like to gain further information about barriers to neonatal donation to better guide providers in counseling their patients and promote neonatal donation.
- Who is organizing this study: This is a joint study between the University of Arizona Departments of Maternal Fetal Medicine and Pediatrics and Donate Life Arizona.
- Who can participate: All staff members of organ procurement organizations.
- Time requirement: < 20 minutes (this is a one time survey)
- Benefit: Though there are no direct benefits to participants, we are hoping to increase awareness of organ donation. We very much appreciate everything you do for our patients and would value your insights into the process!
- Questions: Please feel free to contact the PI, Dr. Veronica Winget, with any questions or concerns vwinget@arizona.edu.
OPO professionals who wish to contribute their insights are encouraged to participate in the survey here.
By sharing your experience, you are helping ensure that neonatal donation becomes a more accessible and thoughtfully supported choice for families across the country.
