Transplant Infectious Disease Training: Bridging the Gap.

Abstract

An increasing complexity of organ transplantation, newer immunosuppressives, and an expanded donor pool requires a well-trained multidisciplinary workforce with surgeons, physicians, and infectious diseases (ID) physicians working together. In most countries, solid organ transplantation preceded the development of ID as a specialty leading to a lag in transplant infectious diseases (TID) physicians being a member of this team. This gap is further widened in low middle-income countries (LMIC) like India, where there is a dearth of laboratory facilities, which are essential for pretransplant screening and diagnosis of posttransplant infections. India though an LMIC does large volumes of organ and bone marrow transplantations. This article examines the current state of ID and TID training in India with an emphasis on the need for a structured and standardized educational pathway for future transplant professionals. Drawing on examples from existing programs and workforce data using a qualitative survey, we identify paramount challenges such as inconsistent exposure during medical and surgical training, limited access to transplant-specific education, and insufficient support for career development in transplant-related specialties. We propose a strategic framework to address these challenges with an emphasis on early exposure, interprofessional education, mentorship, and the integration of transplant content within undergraduate and postgraduate curricula. By encouraging a comprehensive national strategy, we aspire to bridge this training gap, ensuring workforce sustainability and ultimately improving patient outcomes for those awaiting transplantation.