The US will soon permit kidney and liver transplants from HIV-positive donors to HIV-positive recipients, aiming to address organ shortages, reduce wait times, and tackle HIV stigma.

The new rule, set to take effect as early as 2025, hopes to address organ shortages and reduce transplant wait times while combatting HIV stigma.

Previously restricted under the 2013 HOPE Act to research trials, the updated policy permits these transplants as part of standard medical care. HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra emphasised the move as a step toward health equity and innovation in transplant medicine.

Research supports the decision, with a study of 198 kidney transplants showing no significant differences in survival or rejection rates between HIV-positive and HIV-negative donors. Similar success has been documented since South Africa’s pioneering efforts in 2010.

This change could expand the donor pool by thousands, alleviating pressure on a system where over 100,000 Americans await transplants. While the rule currently covers kidneys and livers, further studies may open doors for other organs, such as hearts and lungs.

The decision offers new opportunities for HIV-positive patients and progress toward equitable medical care.