Organ Procurement Systems and the Possibility of a Market for Human Organs

Abstract

The shortfalls of nonmarket organ exchange systems suggests that a market system may provide a solution. This paper explores the literature surrounding organ and healthcare markets and policy. Using a partial equilibrium model, it creates a theoretical model for an organ market. The results of a free market indicate that government intervention via subsidy would be a tool that could help correct for market failures. However, without several key aspects of perfect competition, a market for human organs is not currently a feasible solution