The Ministry of Health in Costa Rica has reported a significant increase in organ and tissue donation and transplantation for the year 2025. This announcement was made as part of the observance of World Organ and Tissue Transplant Day.
According to the 2025 Donation and Transplant Report, there were 66 deceased donors last year, resulting in a rate of 12.71 donors per million people. This is the highest rate recorded in recent years. The ministry attributes this growth to improved identification of potential donors, better coordination between institutions, and stronger technical oversight by health authorities.
In 2025, medical teams performed 104 kidney transplants, 53 liver transplants, 16 lung transplants, and six heart transplants. The number of liver transplants reached a rate of 10.01 per million people—almost double that of previous years—which led to shorter waiting times for patients and reduced risks associated with long waits.
For tissue donations, there were 179 cornea transplants conducted by the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS), marking the highest figure between 2022 and 2025. Starting July 18, 2025, the Ministry began distributing corneal tissue nationwide through its Technical Executive Secretariat for Donation and Transplantation. This process uses the Cornea Module within SINADOC to improve traceability, fairness, and transparency in allocation.
“Each donor can benefit multiple patients through organ and tissue donation, creating a tangible impact on survival rates and quality of life for those on waiting lists,” stated the Ministry.
The Ministry encourages citizens to discuss their wishes regarding donation with family members: “Informing others about your decision to donate is an act of social responsibility that can change many lives.” The statement concludes: “Donating organs and tissues leaves a legacy of life, hope, and solidarity for Costa Rica.”
