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More precise quantification of risks of poor outcomes related to donor/recipient genetic architecture will enhance the efficacy of the allocation of precious donor kidneys. Study results are anticipated in 2023. Find out more information on the APOLLO initiative at: https://theapollonetwork.org/info.cfm Page 19 | Advancing American Kidney Health ▶ HRSA, through the OPTN, is developing a new model to test accelerated placement of certain kidneys that are at high risk for discard. Following recommendations from the National Kidney Foundation Consensus Conference,50 the OPTN Organ Center will develop and test a proof of concept for expediting allocation of these organs with safety monitoring. The OPTN will evaluate the concept for safety and improvements in allocation efficiency. ▶ HHS is analyzing and improving transplantation metrics with a focus on increasing organ utilization while maintaining good outcomes. ▶ HRSA, through the OPTN, convened an Ad Hoc System Performance Committee, which among other issues, has discussed new potential performance metrics that monitor patient safety while encouraging innovative practice. ▶ Per the 2019 OMB regulatory agenda, CMS is reviewing the OPO conditions for coverage and will be proposing changes to the standards used to evaluate OPOs to ensure proper data collection on the availability of transplantable organs and transplants. ▶ CMS has begun to develop and test new dialysis facility transplant referral measures, which, if approved, could be added to Quality Incentive Program (QIP) through rulemaking in the future and then via the Consolidated Renal Operations in a Web-enabled Network (CROWNWeb) system and ultimately, Dialysis Facility Compare.51 OBJECTIVE 2. Increase the number of living donors by removing disincentives to donation and ensuring appropriate financial support Living donors account for 30 percent of all kidney transplants in the U.S. However, many financial and risk-based disincentives to donation persist, which may serve as barriers for individuals who would otherwise be willing to donate a kidney. ▶ To further support living donors, HRSA is planning to expand the Reimbursement of Travel and Subsistence Expenses toward Living Organ Donation program by increasing the eligibility income threshold. HRSA is implementing a pilot to expand the qualifying expenses to include coverage for lost wages and family expenses. The expansion of the current reimbursement program will reduce financial barriers to organ donation and support the goal of increasing living donor transplants. Find more information on the Reimbursement of Travel and Subsistence Expenses toward Living Organ Donation program at: https://grants.hrsa.gov/2010/Web2External/Interface/Common/ EHBDisplayAttachment.aspx?dm_rtc=16&dm_attid=49472bf1-7438-42ff-b406-d597fcf3b498 ▶ In FY 2019, HRSA awarded a demonstration cooperative agreement to provide for reimbursement of up to $5,000 in lost wages related to donor evaluation and surgical procedures regardless of the donor’s income. Findings from this three-year demonstration project will inform whether expansion of the Reimbursement of Travel and Subsistence Expenses toward Living Organ Donation program has a positive effect on kidney donation.