Background:
The rapidly evolving novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic bought many kidney transplant (KT) programmes to a halt. Integral to resuming KT activity is understanding the perspectives of potential transplant candidates during this highly dynamic time.

Methods:
From June 1st to July 7th 2020, a telephone survey of KT candidates on the deceased donor waiting list at Imperial College Renal and Transplant Centre in West London was conducted. The survey captured ongoing COVID-19 exposure risks and patients’ views on wait list (WL) reactivation and undergoing transplantation.

Results:
207 responses were received. Of the respondents 180 patients (87%) were happy to be reactivated onto the WL; with 141 patients (68%) willing to give consent to transplantation currently, whilst 53 patients (26%) felt unsure, and 13 patients (6%) would decline a KT. The vast majority of patients had no concerns. In the responses from those who were uncertain or who would decline a KT, concerns about COVID-19 infection and the need for reassurance from transplant units dominated. Universally patients wanted more information about COVID-19 infection risk with KT and the precautions being taken to reduce this risk.

Conclusions:
The majority of surveyed patients are in favour of reactivation and receiving a KT despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Reactivation of candidates cannot be assumed and should take an individualised approach, incorporating clinical risk with patient perspectives. Improved communication with KT candidates is highly requested.