Memorial Hermann – Texas Medical Center has announced the inactivation of its liver transplant program due to irregularities. The irregularities were identified in the United Network for Organ Sharing transplant information database, specifically concerning donor acceptance criteria for liver transplant patients. Factors such as the age and weight of deceased donors were found to be irregular. However, no other transplant program at Memorial Hermann has been affected, and support is being provided to all affected patients and families.
The hospital has initiated an investigation into the irregularities and has voluntarily inactivated the liver transplant program. They are fully cooperating with regulatory oversight agencies and are also working individually with impacted patients and families to ensure their care and support. The incident is reportedly under investigation by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which has expressed its commitment to patient safety and equitable access to organ transplant services.
This situation raises concerns about the safety and integrity of the organ procurement and transplantation system. The full extent of the irregularities and their implications for patients awaiting liver transplants at Memorial Hermann – Texas Medical Center is yet to be determined as investigations continue. The hospital’s commitment to patient safety and their proactive response to the irregularities will likely be closely scrutinized as authorities work to address the matter and protect the organ transplantation system’s integrity.
