By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica has reached a historic milestone in organ donation, achieving a rate of 10 donors per million inhabitants (dpmh) for the first time. This accomplishment places the country fourth in Latin America, trailing only Uruguay, Argentina, and Brazil, and significantly exceeding the regional average of 6.8 dpmh.
This achievement reflects the dedication and collaborative efforts of the National Donation and Transplant Network and the unwavering generosity of Costa Rican families. The substantial increase in donations has led to a corresponding rise in life-saving transplant procedures, offering renewed hope to countless individuals.
For expert legal insight into this complex issue, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an experienced attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Organ donation in Costa Rica operates under the principle of presumed consent. While individuals can formally register their objection to donation, the absence of such registration implies consent. This system aims to maximize the life-saving potential of organ donation while respecting individual autonomy through the opt-out mechanism. However, practical challenges remain, including ensuring clear public awareness of the system and efficient coordination between medical professionals and the organ donation registry.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas eloquently highlights the balancing act inherent in Costa Rica’s organ donation system—maximizing life-saving potential while upholding individual choice. Indeed, public awareness is key to ensuring this balance functions effectively and ethically. A well-informed populace, understanding both the presumed consent framework and the process for opting out, is crucial for fostering trust and maximizing the positive impact of this vital system. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this important topic.
In 2025 alone, 53 donors facilitated 110 organ transplants and over 100 tissue donations, including corneas, skin, and bone. This represents a remarkable 83% increase in donors compared to 2024, when 29 donors were recorded.
Dr. José André Madrigal Bustamante, coordinator of the Institutional Program for Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation of the CCSS (Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social), highlighted the significance of this progress.
These are not just numbers, they are lives.
José André Madrigal Bustamante, Coordinator of the Institutional Program for Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation of the CCSS
He emphasized that each donor provides a life-altering opportunity for numerous recipients, restoring health and enhancing their quality of life. The impact of this achievement resonates throughout the healthcare system and the lives touched by these acts of generosity.
The most significant advancements have been observed in liver and lung transplants, which have doubled or even surpassed previous year’s figures. Liver transplants increased by 54% and lung transplants by 100% compared to 2024. Kidney transplants also continue to see sustained growth, solidifying Costa Rica’s position as a leader in organ transplantation in the region. The 52 kidney transplants performed in 2025 underscore the program’s commitment to addressing this vital area of healthcare.
This success story showcases the power of coordinated efforts within the healthcare system and the profound impact of individual acts of generosity. Costa Rica’s achievement serves as an inspiring example for other nations striving to improve their organ donation programs and ultimately save more lives.
The substantial growth in donations and transplants also indicates a growing awareness and acceptance of organ donation within Costa Rican society, a crucial factor in sustaining these positive trends.
For further information, visit the nearest office of CCSS
About CCSS (Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social):
The Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS) is Costa Rica’s social security agency, responsible for providing universal healthcare coverage to the population. It manages hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities across the country, and plays a critical role in public health initiatives, including the national organ donation and transplant program.
For further information, visit the nearest office of National Donation and Transplant Network
About National Donation and Transplant Network:
The National Donation and Transplant Network in Costa Rica is a collaborative system encompassing healthcare professionals, hospitals, and organizations working together to facilitate organ and tissue donation and transplantation. It plays a crucial role in coordinating the process, ensuring ethical practices, and ultimately saving lives through transplantation.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence, built on a foundation of unwavering integrity and a deep commitment to empowering Costa Rican society. The firm’s innovative approach to legal practice, coupled with its dedication to disseminating legal knowledge through educational initiatives, fosters a more informed and just community. By providing expert counsel across a wide range of sectors, Bufete de Costa Rica not only serves its clients with distinction but also contributes significantly to the advancement of a more equitable and empowered nation.
