Impact of the European–Mediterranean Postgraduate Program on Organ Donation and Transplantation (EMPODaT): A Survey Analysis at 6 Years

Background/Objectives: To evaluate the impact of the European–Mediterranean Postgraduate Program on Organ Donation and Transplantation (EMPODaT) on organ donation and transplantation (ODT) at 6 years. Methods: EMPODaT is a Trans-European Mobility Programme for University Studies (TEMPUS) project founded by the European Commission to address ODT professionals’ shortage in Middle East/North Africa (MENA) countries through structured postgraduate education. Leading universities from Spain, Germany, Sweden, and France, and key institutions in Egypt, Lebanon, and Morocco, developed a one-year blended training program incorporating e-learning, in-person courses, and hospital traineeships. The effect of the program at 6 years was analyzed by surveying the 90 healthcare participants. Results: A total of 73.9% of respondents remained actively engaged in the field, and some assumed leadership roles (local directors 14.4%, donor coordinators 13%). Also, 65.2% of participants reported improvements in policies and practices, with notable progress in donor screening (39.1%), brain death diagnosis (30.4%), and hospital policy reforms (69.7%). The study identified barriers, such as legal (34.4%), financial (34.8%), and public/social resistance (39.1%). Training alone, without strong hospital policies, support, and government involvement, was insufficient for introducing meaningful changes in ODT. Conclusions: Key aspects for successful implementation of training programs on ODT in MENA countries should consider hospital leadership engagement, strengthen institutional collaborations, and incorporate national health authorities to enhance sustainability and drive systemic changes. Prioritizing individuals in key decision-making positions could further enhance program effectiveness.