What is the primary role of organ procurement organizations (OPOs)?

The primary role of organ procurement organizations (OPOs) is to facilitate the organ donation process and coordinate between hospitals, donors, and transplant centers. OPOs are crucial in ensuring that potential organ donations are handled promptly and efficiently. They work to identify suitable candidates for organ donation, communicate with families about the donation process, and coordinate the logistics of organ recovery and transportation to transplant centers. Their involvement is essential for maximizing the number of viable organs available for transplantation, ultimately saving lives and improving patient outcomes.

The other options, while related to aspects of organ donation and transplantation, do not encapsulate the core function of OPOs as effectively. For instance, organizing community awareness events about organ donation, although important for increasing donor registries, is not the primary function of OPOs. Similarly, managing organ storage facilities and developing regulations for organ transplantation pertain to logistical and regulatory aspects that may involve other entities within the healthcare system, rather than the primary role of OPOs.