Science Nation: New Software Matches More Kidney Donations, Faster
Harvard economist Alvin Roth is a matchmaker but he’s not finding love – he’s finding kidneys. With support from the National Science Foundation, he and his team have developed a suite of computer programs that match living kidney donors with recipients. Why is an economist organizing kidney transplants? It turns out that an understanding of game theory and market dynamics is key to optimizing pairings. It's all about streamlining complicated matches using the science of the marketplace. Their matching software is the engine that has helped transplant centers in 30 states so far. Part of the National Science Foundation Series “Science Nation.”
Media Details
Runtime: 2 minutes 31 seconds
- Topic: Health and Safety, Science, Technology
- Subtopic: Computer Software, Health Care, Physiology
- Grade/Interest Level: 10 - 12
- Standards:
- Release Year: 2009
- Producer/Distributor: National Science Foundation
- Series: Science Nation
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