What is a kidney transplant?

A kidney transplant replaces a failing kidney with a healthy one from a living or deceased donor. For many people, it can reduce or eliminate the need for dialysis and improve quality of life.

Who may be eligible for a kidney transplant?

You may qualify if you have end‑stage kidney disease, are on dialysis or have advanced chronic kidney disease. Our team reviews your medical history, overall health and readiness during a full evaluation.

What types of kidney donors are available?

Kidneys come from deceased donors or living donors. Living donors may be a family member, friend or someone who chooses to donate. Living donor transplants often mean shorter wait times and strong long‑term outcomes.

How do I get started with the kidney transplant process?

You can be referred by your doctor or dialysis center, or you may self‑refer using a confidential online form . A kidney transplant team member will contact you to review next steps.

What tests are required before evaluation?

Common screenings may include blood work, imaging, heart testing and routine cancer screenings. Recent test results are often accepted. Your team will guide you through what’s needed.

What happens during the evaluation?

Your evaluation includes medical exams, lab work, imaging and meetings with your kidney transplant care team. A multidisciplinary committee reviews your results to determine if kidney transplant is safe for you.

Do I need to quit smoking or lose weight before kidney transplant?

Yes. Smoking must stop before evaluation, and weight‑management support is available if needed. These steps help improve kidney transplant safety and outcomes.

How long is the hospital stay after kidney transplant surgery?

Most patients go home in about four days. Your stay depends on how quickly your new kidney begins working and how comfortable you feel managing medications.

What does recovery look like after kidney transplant?

You’ll have frequent follow‑up visits and lab work at first, which taper over time. Lifelong monitoring and medication support help protect your new kidney.

Where is kidney transplant care provided?

All kidney transplant care takes place at OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital , so your evaluation, surgery and follow‑up care happen in one coordinated location.

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Kidney Transplant Program

Comprehensive kidney transplant care designed
around you — every step of the way.

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Kidney transplant care that puts you first

A kidney transplant is more than a procedure. It’s a deeply personal, life-changing journey. Our kidney transplant program at OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, Ohio brings expert physicians, advanced technology and a dedicated care team together in one trusted system, so your care feels seamless. Explore our program, learn what to expect and take your next step with confidence.

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Wherever you are in your transplant journey, we’re here to help.

Kidney transplant services

Is a kidney transplant right for you?

Many people consider a kidney transplant to reduce or avoid long‑term dialysis and improve quality of life. You may be eligible if you have advanced kidney disease, including end‑stage kidney disease, late‑stage chronic kidney disease or kidney disease related to diabetes.

Types of kidney donation

Deceased donor kidneys are matched through a national system. Depending on your health, some options may help reduce wait time. Your transplant team will explain what’s available and what’s right for you.
Living donors may be a family member, friend or someone who chooses to donate to help another person. Living donor transplants often mean shorter wait times, strong long‑term results and the ability to plan surgery in advance.

If you’re on the national transplant wait list, your care team continues to support you. We monitor your health, help keep required testing up to date and talk through living and deceased donor options that may shorten your wait.

Living kidney donation

Give someone a second chance through living kidney donation.

Choosing to donate a kidney is a generous and personal decision. Our transplant team is here to answer your questions, help you understand your options and support you through every step of the process.

A living donor kidney can help someone receive a transplant sooner and may improve their quality of life.

BEGIN THE LIVING KIDNEY DONATION PROCESS

Why does living kidney donation matter?

A kidney from a living donor can help someone receive a transplant sooner, spend less time on dialysis or avoid dialysis altogether.

Can I be a living kidney donor?

Many people can live healthy lives with one kidney. Donors may be family members, friends, coworkers, neighbors or individuals who want to help someone they don't know.

How do I find out if I can donate?

Potential donors complete a thorough medical and emotional health evaluation to make sure donation is a safe choice for them.

What types of living kidney donation are available?

You can donate to a specific person you know (directed donation) or donate without choosing a recipient (non-directed donation).

What is recovery like after donation?

Kidney donation surgery is often minimally invasive. Recovery varies, but many donors return to normal activities within several weeks.

Why choose OhioHealth for your kidney transplant

At OhioHealth, experienced kidney and transplant specialists work together in one place, so your care stays familiar and connected. Our dedicated team offers clear communication and personal support to help you feel confident and cared for throughout your journey.

Kidney transplant specialists

Hannah R Kerr, MD

Transplant Surgery
(614) 544-4269

Salma M Shaikhouni, MD

Transplant Nephrology
(614) 544-4269