UC Davis Health’s Transplant Center has achieved certification as a liver transplant program by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). With this certification, the center can now provide life-saving liver transplants to potential patients insured by Medicare or Medicaid. This designation significantly increases access to liver transplants for individuals in Northern California. The achievement of CMS certification acknowledges the high quality of care and services offered by the UC Davis Transplant Center. By meeting strict quality of care requirements set by CMS, such as clinical experience, superior outcomes, and adherence to safety standards, the center has proven its ability to successfully carry out liver transplants.
The UC Davis Transplant Center, which started its liver transplant program in July 2023, has already completed 26 liver transplants, with a 100% survival rate. It is recognized as a model hospital by the United Network for Organ Sharing and is chosen by CMS to guide national transplant best practices. The center’s multidisciplinary approach to patient care, involving surgeons, nurses, hepatologists, and various other specialists, contributes to the success and high quality of its transplant program. The UC Davis Health liver transplant program serves patients in the 33 counties covered by the institution, spanning a vast area of 65,000 square miles.
Liver transplantation remains the sole cure for liver insufficiency or failure. According to the U.S. Health Resources & Services Administration, livers are the second-most awaited organ transplant, with over 10,500 people on the waiting list in 2023. UC Davis Health’s liver transplant program aims to ensure equitable access to transplantation for all liver disease patients by providing advanced therapies and transplantation services. This certification highlights the center’s commitment to delivering world-class care to the community and further establishes its position as a leader in organ transplantation.
