Why is it important to seek a transplant program that offers a multidisciplinary team?
The complex process of organ transplantation requires the combined expertise and cooperation of many medical and surgical professionals. Sound protocols and frequent communication among the transplant team members and the patient ensure the highest level of care and offer the greatest chance for the long-term health of a transplanted organ.
Both of the Saint Barnabas Health Care System Renal and Pancreas Transplant Centers are backed by the full resources of two of New Jersey's leading medical centers, as well as the state's largest health care delivery system. For people with renal disease, the deep resources translate to wider transplant opportunities- and even extend the opportunity to many whose medical conditions or age may previously have prevented transplantation.
Who are the health care providers that comprise an effective transplant team?
Each member of our multidisciplinary team, which is comprised of physicians, nurses, social workers, a transplant nutritionist, and a financial counselor, provide specific and vital services to those seeking kidney transplantation and continue to support them as they maintain their organ. Depending on the findings of the pre-transplant evaluation, the team may also call on cardiologist, pulmonologists, urologist, psychiatrists or other sub-specialist who work closely with the transplant team and are familiar with the medical and psychological factors unique to people with renal disease.
The physician directors at the Saint Barnabas Health Care System Renal and Pancreas Transplant Centers are widely regarded as pioneers in the field of transplantation. Their qualifications, combined with exceptional care from nurses whose professional experience also includes dialysis, diabetes education, and cardio-thoracic care nursing have earned the team tremendous confidence from our patients.
How can social workers and a financial counselor help facilitate transplantation?
The emphasis at the Renal and Pancreas Transplant Centers is on treating the whole patient. Our social workers and financial counselor assist patients and family members in tackling a spectrum of personal and financial challenges often experienced by people with chronic illness. They can help individuals sort through the insurance issues, counsel them on employment or school-related problems, and guide them through the physical and emotional changes that are taking place in their lives.
One of the great rewards I have experienced since joining the Renal and Pancreas Transplant Centers is seeing patients grow stronger physically and emotionally throughout the transplant process.
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