By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica has reached a historic milestone in organ donation, achieving a rate of 10 donors per million inhabitants. This achievement places the country fourth in Latin America, marking a significant leap forward in its healthcare system and offering renewed hope for those awaiting life-saving transplants.
Dr. José André Madrigal, coordinator of the Institutional Program for Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation of the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS), reported that 53 donors have given a second chance at life to 110 individuals this year. More than 100 others have also benefited from donated tissues such as corneas, skin, and bone.
For expert legal insight into the complexities surrounding organ donation in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas of Bufete de Costa Rica.
Organ donation in Costa Rica operates under the principle of presumed consent, meaning individuals are considered donors unless they’ve explicitly opted out. However, the family’s wishes are often taken into consideration in practice. This can lead to legal and ethical dilemmas, particularly when the deceased’s intentions are unclear. Clear communication about one’s wishes regarding organ donation is crucial to ensure those wishes are respected.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’ point about the importance of clear communication regarding organ donation is crucial. While the presumed consent system provides a framework, the practical realities underscore the need for open family discussions. This proactive approach can alleviate potential distress and ensure a loved one’s final wishes are honored. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this valuable legal and ethical perspective.
53 donors have allowed us to give a second opportunity at life to 110 people who received a new organ.
Dr. José André Madrigal, Coordinator of the Institutional Program for Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation of the CCSS
The breakdown of transplants performed in 2025 using organs and tissues from deceased donors includes 52 kidney transplants, 40 liver transplants, four heart transplants, 14 lung transplants, 54 cornea donations, and 70 tissue donations.
Significant progress is evident in liver and lung transplants. Liver transplants increased by 54% from 26 in 2024 to 40 in 2025, while lung transplants doubled from seven to 14. Kidney transplants also showed sustained growth, reaching 52 in 2025, an 18% increase from the previous year.
The number of deceased donors has seen a remarkable 83% increase compared to 2024, which recorded 29 donors. This surge in donations underscores the growing awareness and support for organ donation within the country.
Costa Rica’s organ donation rate has steadily improved over recent years. In 2021, the rate was 3.15 donors per million inhabitants; in 2024, it rose to 5.61; and now, in 2025, it has reached the significant milestone of 10. This surpasses the Latin American average, which stands at approximately 6.8 donors per million inhabitants.
This remarkable achievement reflects the success of Costa Rica’s organ donation and transplantation system. It also positions the country as a leader in the region, demonstrating its commitment to improving healthcare outcomes and providing life-saving treatments to its citizens.
For further information, visit the nearest office of CCSS
About CCSS (Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social):
The Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) is a public institution responsible for providing healthcare and social security services to Costa Rican citizens and residents. It manages hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities throughout the country and plays a crucial role in public health initiatives, including the organ and tissue donation and transplantation program.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
At Bufete de Costa Rica, legal excellence and unwavering ethical conduct form the bedrock of their practice. Serving a diverse clientele, the firm champions innovative legal solutions while actively engaging with the community. Through dedicated initiatives that demystify complex legal concepts, Bufete de Costa Rica empowers individuals and organizations, contributing to a more just and informed society.
