A new study published in npj Health Systems suggests that offering families of deceased organ donors reimbursement for funeral expenses could significantly increase organ donation rates in the United States. The authors argue that the current law the National Organ Transplant Act prevents such payments, even though similar reimbursements are already permitted for whole-body donors.
According to the analysis, introducing a capped funeral reimbursement of around $6,000–$8,000 could lead to a 9–35% rise in organ donations. This policy shift could save between 105,000 and 419,000 life-years and generate $200 million to $800 million in annual Medicare savings by reducing the reliance on dialysis and other costly treatments.
The researchers contend that the plan can be implemented ethically if reimbursement is carefully regulated to prevent coercion or commercialization. Oversight by the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network and the Health Resources and Services Administration could ensure transparency and fairness.
They also note that the idea aligns with broader U.S. health policy goals to improve access and equity in transplantation. With more than 100,000 Americans still on transplant waiting lists, the proposal is framed as both a humanitarian and cost-saving opportunity.