Who’s Who on Your Transplant Care Team
Your transplant care team is made up of specialists who help manage different parts of your care. Learn who they are, what they do, and when to contact them.
Medically reviewed by Jessie J. Danforth RN, BSN
Last updated: September 8, 2026
Medically reviewed by Jessie J. Danforth RN, BSN
Last updated: September 8, 2026
At each stage of transplant, you will work with healthcare professionals who each support a different part of your care. While the journey can feel overwhelming, your transplant team is there to help guide you through the process, answer questions, and support your health every step of the way. Understanding who does what can make it easier to know who to contact, what to expect, and where to turn when you need help.
Meet the Transplant Team Members
Transplant Surgeon
Transplant Nephrologist
Nurse Practitioner/ Physician Assistant
Transplant Coordinator
Transplant Pharmacist
Transplant Social Worker
Transplant Psychologist or Psychiatrist
Transplant Financial Coordinator
Transplant Dietitian
Other healthcare providers you may see
General Nephrologist
Primary Care Physician
Other Specialists
Remember, you’re also an important part of your care team
You and your caregiver play an important role in your transplant journey. Staying informed, asking questions, communicating openly, and taking an active role in your care can help keep you safe, and feel more confident and supported through the process.
Knowing who to reach out to
For questions about appointments, testing, or next steps:
Your transplant coordinator is usually your main point of contact and can help answer questions or connect you with the right member of your care team.
For questions about medications or side effects:
Contact your transplant pharmacist, nephrologist, or nurse practitioner/ physician assistant. They can help explain medication changes, dosing instructions, possible side effects, and questions about how your medication is working.
If you’re feeling sick or worried about symptoms:
Contact your transplant team right away if you have fever, pain, swelling, vomiting, trouble taking medications, or notice sudden changes in how you feel or to your incision site. For severe symptoms or medical emergencies, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
For questions about surgery and/or recovery:
Reach out to your transplant surgeon or surgical team.
For emotional support or help coping with stress:
You’re not alone. Contact your transplant social worker, psychologist, or psychiatrist for support.
For questions about insurance, bills, or financial assistance:
Get in touch with your transplant financial coordinator.
For questions about food, nutrition, or dietary restrictions:
Reach out to your dietitian, nutrition specialist, or transplant team for guidance on healthy eating before and after transplant.
For general health concerns not directly related to transplant:
Contact your primary care physician or general nephrologist.
Not sure who to contact?
Start with your transplant coordinator. They can often answer questions directly or help connect you with the right member or your care team when needed.
Related Content
Common questions while you prepare
What to expect when considering or waiting for a kidney transplant.
How transplant surgery works
Learn what happens before, during, and after surgery so you can feel more prepared for transplant day.
Common questions during recovery
What to expect after transplant and how to manage medications, appointments, and daily life at home.
CareDx is committed to providing scientifically supported educational content for transplant recipients and caregivers. All content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical advice or replace guidance from your healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of your transplant team with any questions you may have regarding your specific medical condition.