Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Canadian transplant journeys: a mixed methods study

BACKGROUND: Navigating the organ donation and transplantation system in Canada can be challenging for individuals on transplant journeys. Although it is likely that the COVID-19 pandemic has further contributed to these challenges, the experiences of individuals during the pandemic in Canada have not been well elicited. OBJECTIVE: To illuminate how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted individuals on transplant journeys in Canada. DESIGN: Convergent parallel mixed-methods study. SETTING: Canada. PARTICIPANTS: Adult patients, caregivers, and donors on transplant journeys across Canada. DATA COLLECTION: Eight focus groups and an online survey between May and November 2021. Focus group transcripts were analysed using an inductive conventional content analysis approach. Survey data were analysed using descriptive statistics. The study was guided by individuals with lived experience of organ donation and transplantation. RESULTS: A total of 830 participants completed three COVID-19 related survey questions, with 21 participating in the focus groups. Survey results: over 50% of patients and caregivers reported that the pandemic impacted their access to their healthcare team, their mental health (60% and 65%, respectively) and their comfort going out in public (80% and 75%, respectively). Although many donors reported several factors that impacted their transplant journey, the impact appeared to be greater for patients and caregivers. Qualitative results: three themes emerged from the qualitative data that contextualise participant’s experiences: compounding isolation, disruption amid uncertainty and unforeseen benefits. CONCLUSION: The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated many of the challenges that individuals on transplant journeys experience. It will be critical for transplant programmes to consider these factors in future care provision.