A New York Times article (February 25, 2011) describes a new proposal for allocation of transplanted kidneys – match the lifespan of the recipient and the kidney. The article describes the fact that in the current system an 18 year old donor’s kidney may be allocated to a 77 year old patient.  It is thus highly probable that the recipient may die while the kidney remains functional.  The proposal would match lifespans of the kidney and the recipient to decrease the leftover lifespan of the kidney.  This approach would effectively give priority to young recipients because they are more likely to ensure that the transplanted organ is used fully.  Across stakeholders, this approach is favored by surgeons and ethicists but not by transplant patients.  The question is similar to decisions regarding allocation of repaired parts to products. What weight should be given to each of these stakeholders in devising a decision ? Should the health status of the recipient be a key component of the allocation decision ?