ODTC Project Snapshot: Assessing and Improving the Governance of Organ Donation and Transplantation in Canada

Assessing and Improving the Governance of Organ Donation and Transplantation in Canada

What is this project about?

Project background

A challenge to address in the organ donation and transplantation (ODT) system is the lack of a pan-Canadian governance model. While provincial and territorial governments have the authority to make decisions with respect to ODT system planning, funding and delivery, they operate with varying levels of collaboration, coordination and performance accountability. Identifying options for structures and processes for decision-making at a pan-Canadian level has been identified as a top priority in the ODT community.

Objectives

The project will support the achievement of a pan-Canadian consensus on a new ODT system governance structure, approach or mechanism, which includes a clear accountability framework and associated decision-making process, and respects jurisdictional authority.

Overview of activities

  • Develop a comprehensive map outlining how Canada’s ODT ecosystem is currently governed and identifying roles, responsibilities, strengths and challenges.
  • Present a constructive set of options for consideration by key stakeholders on the future governance of ODT.

How will the project improve the organ donation and transplantation system in Canada?

The project will contribute to:

  • Providing a constructive diagnosis of governance challenges, opportunities and considerations for the creation of pan-Canadian governance.
  • Supporting consensus building among key stakeholders by developing a set of guiding principles and a vision for pan-Canadian ODT governance towards achieving the goal of a higher performing ODT system.
  • Ensuring meaningful improvements to the accessibility, responsiveness, quality, sustainability, and accountability of Canada’s ODT system as a result of improved governance.

The project lead

The project is led by the University of Ottawa Centre for Health Law, Policy and Ethics, in collaboration with University of Ottawa/York University Global Strategy Lab.

Patrick Farfard, Full Professor, Graduate School of Global and Public Affairs Associate Director Global Strategy Lab

“Improving governance is key to achieving the kind of ODT system we want. I am delighted that the Collaborative has decided to put decision making and accountability at the centre of its ongoing efforts to rethink ODT in Canada.”

EXPECTED PROJECT COMPLETION IN 2021

 

 

The Organ Donation and Transplantation Collaborative is an initiative led by Health Canada with provinces and territories (except Québec), Canadian Blood Services, patients, families, clinicians and researchers. Funded by Health Canada, the project Assessing and Improving the Governance of Organ Donation and Transplantation in Canada contributes to the Collaborative’s vision to achieve organ donation and transplantation system improvements that result in better patient outcomes and an increase in the number and quality of successful transplantations. For more information, please consult the Organ Donation and Transplantation Collaborative (the Collaborative) website: https://tinyurl.com/ODTCollaborative.