Driving donation: a geographic analysis of potential organ donors in the state of Ohio, USA

For many years, researchers of organ transplantation have primarily studied the differences in ethnic, cultural and religious characteristics of organ donors across the United States. Unfortunately, this work has failed to include a spatial parameter. Spatial analysis can play an important role in helping researchers better understand these characteristics across diverse landscapes. Using basic statistical techniques, a geographic information system (GIS) and data acquired from actual drivers license records, this study examines the demographic, socioeconomic, religious and electoral landscapes as they relate to potential organ donorship rates across the state of Ohio. Results indicate that income and education are important factors, and political affiliation, race and proximity to organ procurement organizations can also affect one’s potential to donate.