Evolution of liver transplantation at the University of Heidelberg: interventions influencing patient referral

In Heidelberg, liver transplantation was first performed in 1987. In this article, we report our experience with an interdisciplinary approach (intervention) to improve the internal and external acceptance of the liver transplantation program. Formation of a transplant team and interdisciplinary standard setting of pre-, peri-, and postoperative protocols significantly stimulated this process. Involvement of the referring doctors in patient's treatment by transferring competencies enhanced patients referral to our center and increased the numbers of patients on the waiting list, an indispensable factor for organ allocation by Eurotransplant and transplantation. Involvement of patient organizations increased patient acceptance in the program.