A liver transplant is an option for some people with advanced liver disease or specific liver conditions. It is not a service you book yourself, and it is not the next step for everyone who has abnormal liver tests.
A referral, not a self-booking
Your liver specialist, sometimes with your family doctor, decides whether a transplant assessment is appropriate. Programs are organized by province. You may be asked to travel to a centre outside your city. The Hospitals pages list a few publicly documented programs so you can see the kind of organizations involved.
Being referred for assessment is not the same as being placed on a wait list. Some people are followed and never listed. Some are listed after a long workup. The team looks at the whole person: the liver, the heart and lungs, infections, support for recovery, and whether transplant is likely to help.
What assessment looks at
Expect questions, blood tests, imaging, and visits with several professionals. You may be asked about alcohol and other substance use, not as a moral test, but because recent use can change safety and timing. Answer honestly so the plan is based on your real situation.
You do not need to calculate a score at home to “qualify.” Teams use medical scores and clinical judgment, and they will explain how those apply to you.
Programs are provincial
Coverage, travel support, and which centre assesses you depend on where you live and on agreements between provinces. Ask your specialist which program would receive a referral and what records you should keep. Confirm any detail on that program’s own website before you rely on it.
Living donation is a separate conversation with its own medical and ethical checks. Raise it only with the transplant team, who can explain whether it is relevant.
Questions for your specialist
- Are we at a point where transplant assessment should be discussed?
- Which program would you refer to, and what is the usual wait for the first visit?
- What can I do now that changes safety, including medicines and alcohol?
- Who coordinates care between my local clinic and the transplant centre?
If you feel suddenly worse while waiting, contact your current care team or emergency services. A future assessment date is not a reason to stay home during an emergency.