Rafael Matesanz

Who Is Rafael Matesanz Acedos?

Rafael Matesanz Acedos is a renowned Spanish nephrologist and the founder of the Spanish National Transplant Organization (ONT), an institution that established a global benchmark in organ donation. His vision and leadership transformed Spain into an international leader in organ donation, achieving the highest donation and transplant rates worldwide. Under his guidance, the ONT implemented the Spanish transplant model, achieving exemplary coordination among hospitals, doctors, waiting lists, security forces, and legislators, effecting a cultural shift toward organ donation. Matesanz is recognized for his expertise in multidisciplinary team management, efficiency in complex processes, and organizational adaptability, qualities he also brings to his conferences.

What is his Background?

Matesanz studied medicine at the Complutense University of Madrid and completed his Ph.D. at the Autonomous University of Madrid, specializing in nephrology at the Jiménez Díaz Foundation. His career includes extensive clinical experience as Head of Nephrology at Madrid’s Ramón y Cajal University Hospital and a series of leadership roles, including Director General of Spain’s National Health Institute (INSALUD) and President of Spain’s National Transplant Committee. He also served two terms as director of the Spanish National Transplant Organization (ONT) and was President of the Ibero-American Council for Organ and Transplant Donation until his retirement. Internationally, he has been an advisor to the World Health Organization and chaired the Council of Europe’s Transplant Experts Committee. His work has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Prince of Asturias Award for International Cooperation in 2010, Spain’s Civil Health Order, and the prestigious Living Legend Award from The Transplantation Society.