Liver Transplant Program - Referral Process

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) ensures equal access to transplants. Since 1961, approximately 825 veterans have received liver transplants through the VA referral system. 

Who is eligible for a liver transplant?

All veterans enrolled for care in the VA system are eligible for consideration for transplant services.

How do I start the process?

The request for transplant must originate from the veteran's primary VA medical center where the veteran is enrolled. The VA staff physician from that primary center completes a referral packet, which includes the VA Transplant Referral Form and all required documentation (Attachment A and Attachment B). The original referral packet and three copies are mailed to the VA National Transplant Office in Washington, D.C.

What are the steps in the process?

First, the VA National Transplant Office assigns two members of the Transplant Review Board to review the packet. Board members are transplant physicians located throughout the U.S. This board will recommend whether the packet can be forwarded to a regional VA transplant center for in-depth review.

Second, if approved by the Board, the referral packet will be assigned to one of four VA transplant centers.

Third, if assigned to Portland, the veteran's referral packet is reviewed by the Transplant Coordinator and the patient is scheduled for an on-site evaluation.  The team will determine if the veteran should come to Portland for an on-site evaluation further testing or information is required the veteran is not a candidate for transplantation

If at any point the veteran is determined not to be a candidate for transplantation, they will continue care through the veteran's primary VA medical center.