There is no doubt that renal transplants are life saving. For a patient with renal failure the chance of living longer is significantly better with a transplant. This is also associated with reduced expenditure over a period of 2-3 years compared to dialysis.
The ethical questions remain difficult. The main argument against a paid renal transplant is that this effectively rules out patients who do not have the means to pay. Having said that the it does not prevent people from resorting to illegal means to get there. Legalising it would ensure a certain accountability on behalf of the docotrs and the recipients. Eliminating the middleman would ensure the donor is adequately compensated. Evaluating the donor is very importnat to ensure he has a very low risk of future renal disease. These are very complex issues that need to be tackled as our society gets more mature.
We need to begin with promoting deceased donor transplants. A central databse would be a first step in this direction. Each state needs to designate key hosiptals in this regard.
Doctors in India do have to recognise their responsibilities and trust placed in them. In turn the community needs to recognise their value and compensate them appropriately.
