Certified Clinical Transplant Nurse (CCTN) Practice Exam

The definition of a Donor Service Area (DSA) as established by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) refers specifically to the geographical area served by a single organ procurement organization (OPO). Each DSA encompasses the region where the OPO is responsible for the recovery of organs from donors and coordinating with transplant centers to ensure that viable organs are allocated to suitable recipients. This structure is critical for streamlining the transplant process and ensuring that donor organs are distributed efficiently.

By focusing on this definition, it clarifies the role of the OPO in managing organ donation and transportation logistics within its designated area. This identification of specific regions aids in systematic and equitable organ distribution across various transplant centers operating within the DSA, ultimately enhancing the chances of successful transplants and better outcomes for recipients.