Making a Referral

Timely Referral Matters

Hospitals play a critical role in preserving the opportunity for organ donation. Early referrals allow Southern Legacy of Life to evaluate a patient’s medical suitability and support hospital teams throughout the donation process.

Federal regulations require hospitals to notify their local Organ Procurement Organization when specific clinical triggers are present. Prompt referral helps ensure that donation opportunities are not missed and that patients’ wishes can be honored.

When to Make a Referral

A referral should be made when a patient meets clinical indicators that may signal the potential for organ donation.

Examples of referral triggers may include:

  • Patients who are ventilator dependent
  • Patients with severe neurological injury such as stroke, trauma, or anoxic brain injury
  • Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) of 5 or less
  • Discussions about withdrawal of care
  • Family members mentioning organ donation
  • Patients placed on hypothermia protocol

When these triggers are identified, hospitals should notify Southern Legacy of Life so clinical evaluation can begin.

CMS Referral Requirement

Federal CMS regulations require hospitals to notify their designated Organ Procurement Organization when patients meet clinical referral criteria.

This requirement ensures that the opportunity for organ, eye, and tissue donation is preserved while supporting compliance with national standards.

What Happens After a Referral

After a referral is received:

1

Southern Legacy of Life clinically evaluates the patient for donation potential.

2

Our coordinators monitor the case in collaboration with the hospital care team.

3

If suitable, SLL partners with the clinical team to preserve organ function and support donation.

4

If the patient is not suitable for donation, the hospital team continues care as planned.

Throughout this process, Southern Legacy of Life serves as a partner to the
hospital team while respecting hospital protocols and patient care decisions.

Referral Resource Tools

Download the following quick reference tools for clinical teams.

Preserving the
Option for Organ Donation

Reference guide outlining clinical
considerations for maintaining donor viability.

Download PDF

Ventilator Referral
Flow Chart

Visual guide to help determine when
a referral should be made.

Download PDF