UNOS follows a collaborative policy development process for administering the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) and handles the development, monitoring, enforcement and modification of the policies that govern the allocation, procurement and transportation of human organs.

This process encourages participation by the public and all areas of the transplant community, including the government. It also promotes equity among patients waiting for organs and allows for ongoing and timely modification to reflect current science and medical practice.

To become binding under the authority of federal regulation, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) must review and approve all policies and bylaws.