A new immunology laboratory at Madras Medical Mission Hospital in Chennai is now offering free or subsidized Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) tests aimed at economically disadvantaged patients. This initiative is expected to significantly enhance the prospects for nearly 9,000 patients currently on Tamil Nadu's kidney transplant waiting list. The HLA test is essential for matching kidney donors with recipients, as it maps unique protein markers on cells, ensuring a closer match reduces the risk of organ rejection. Dr. Georgi Abraham, a nephrologist, emphasized that poor matches can lead to organ failure shortly after surgery. The TANKER Foundation, which helped establish the laboratory with funding from Aptus Value Housing Finance India Limited, will provide these tests, which can cost up to ₹40,000 (approximately $480 USD) at private hospitals, free for low-income patients and at subsidized rates for others. Chronic kidney disease is a growing concern, affecting about 17% of the population in Tamil Nadu, yet fewer than 10% of those in need of a transplant actually receive one due to various barriers, including donor shortages and high costs. Support for patients comes from the Chief Minister's Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme and other philanthropic efforts.