Despite improvements in deceased-donor kidney availability, Massachusetts continues to face substantial waiting-list demand. Between 2019 and 2025, the number of deceased-donor kidney transplants performed in Massachusetts increased by 36%, from 373 to 506 annually. Much of this growth came from kidneys recovered outside New England, reflecting broader geographic sharing following the 2021 kidney allocation policy change (KAS250). However, in 2025 alone, Massachusetts transplant programs added 1,340 candidates to their waiting lists—more than twice the number of deceased-donor transplants performed that year. With approximately 3,600 candidates currently on the waiting list, including more than 1,300 active candidates, the increase in transplant volume remains modest relative to demand.

For Massachusetts patients, the challenge is not simply increasing organ donation, but finding transplant programs where deceased-donor kidney availability is more favorable relative to the number of patients waiting.