Hibernicor LLC has initiated a project with the George Mason University to analyze over a million records of nationwide heart transplant data provided by the United Network of Organ Sharing (UNOS) to determine if there are any regional differences in cold ischemia time and organ wastage. The research is designed to identify geographical disparities that may exist in the United States regarding the supply of potential donor hearts, as compared to the actual heart transplants as measured in terms of waiting time and the likelihood of receiving a transplant. In addition the research will examine whether or not there is direct relationship between the likelihood of donor heart declination and geographical distance from the transplant center using GIS software. The information is central to developing new algorithms for optimal donor heart allocation and transportation logistics.
