Understanding the Impact of COVID-19 on Corneal Transplant Need and Demand through the Example of Australia

Authors

Heather M Machin RN, MBA, Brian Philippy BCHE, CEBT, Collin Ross CEBT, Gerard Sutton MD, Paul Baird PhD

Keywords

corneal tissue, need, demand, want, allocation, wait lists

Abstract

COVID-19 has changed corneal tissue supply and demand cycles. Inevitably, wait lists and wait times will increase globally, and eye banks and surgeons alike will be challenged to retain or re-instate services. Now, more than ever before, definitions and strategies to assist in understanding the delicate nuances between supply and demand, are essential. Our two-part series uses real-world nation examples and scenarios to discuss and propose strategies on this delicate balance. In Part One we examine need, demand, allocation, wait times and wait lists via the example of Australia, a nation pre-COVID-19, described to be routinely meeting demand. In Part Two we examine surplus and waste concepts through the comparison of Australian and USA recovery and allocation models.