Dialysis and transplant planning
Can you pursue kidney transplant while receiving dialysis?
Yes. Dialysis and transplant evaluation can happen on the same timeline. A transplant program decides whether its evaluation and listing criteria apply to you.
Choose your next question.
Follow your care team’s instructions; for urgent symptoms, contact local emergency services.
The short answer.
Being on dialysis does not by itself put you on a transplant waiting list, and it does not by itself rule transplant out. Ask your nephrology or dialysis team about referral, then ask a transplant program what evaluation involves. HRSA explains evaluation and listing.
Dialysis does not equal waitlisting.
Dialysis treats kidney failure while a transplant program assesses whether transplant is appropriate for you. Referral, evaluation, a listing decision, and active or inactive status are separate points in the process. Your transplant program is the source for your current status.
Build the next conversation.
- Ask your dialysis or kidney-care team whether a transplant referral has been discussed and who can send records.
- Contact the transplant program to ask what its evaluation process includes.
- Write down who owns each next task and when you should check back.
NIDDK describes transplant as one treatment option; your clinicians can explain what fits your situation.
Questions for the care team.
- Has a transplant referral been sent, and what is still needed?
- Who can explain my evaluation or listing status?
- Does my current dialysis schedule affect appointments or testing?
- What support, travel, or financial questions should I raise now?
Dialysis modality is a care choice to discuss with your kidney team. It does not predict a transplant decision. NIDDK explains kidney-failure treatment choices.
Sources and boundaries.
Transplant Check offers general navigation questions. It cannot assess eligibility, submit a referral, verify listing status, interpret tests, or replace your clinicians. HRSA/OPTN: Kidney transplant evaluation and listing · NIDDK: Kidney transplant · NIDDK: Treatment choices.