Introduction of the Certificate in Transplant Coordination in the United Kingdom

Abstract

Training for transplant coordinators is not mandatory in the United Kingdom, although the United Kingdom Transplant Coordinators Association has provided informal courses since 1988. The authors of this article were responsible for the development of an accredited training program for transplant coordinators in the United Kingdom. Accredited by the University of Central England, the course modules have been run and managed by the Association since 1996. The course consists of 3 modules: Introduction to Transplant Coordination, Interpersonal and Professional Skills for Transplant Coordinators, and Introduction to Research Methods for Transplant Coordinators. Between 1996 and 1999, 64 transplant coordinators (60% of transplant coordinators currently in post) in the United Kingdom have undertaken at least 1 module. The Association feels that the accredited training program means one step further on the road to professional recognition of transplant coordinators in the United Kingdom.