Changes in Type of Temporary Mechanical Support Device Use Under the New Heart Allocation Policy

“Following the policy change, use of certain types of mechanical pumps increased up to five times. There was notably greater use of these pumps among men following the policy change, potentially giving them priority on the heart transplant list. This may reflect gaming of the system and has the potential to worsen outcomes such as gender disparities in heart transplantation.”

“It remains to be seen whether this is a better strategy for transplant patients or whether this will create the same problems faced by the prior policy. These types of analyses are essential in helping the community understand the challenges of policy development and its effect on patients and transplant centers, and will help to inform future policy.”