The July 22 congressional hearing, "Ensuring Patient Safety: Oversight of the U.S. Organ Procurement and Transplant System,"highlighted serious concerns around patient safety, system oversight, and accountability. The hearing made clear that even rare failures can have devastating consequences, and that improvements and thoughtful oversight are both necessary and urgent. While these incidents are rare, they reveal gaps that must be addressed to protect patients and maintain public trust. The AST fully supports an organ donation system that not only saves lives, but does so with the highest standards of safety, transparency, and integrity. We recognize the system is not perfect, and we share the concerns raised during the hearing. We are committed to working in partnership with HRSA, OPOs, transplant centers, and other stakeholders to improve coordination, oversight, and outcomes. This is a time for collective action. Ensuring patient safety requires everyone involved in the transplant system to work together to drive meaningful, lasting change. At the same time, it's essential to acknowledge the remarkable work being done by the transplant community. Every day, dedicated professionals like you help patients live longer, healthier lives through transplantation. That life-saving work matters and must continue to be supported. Your dedication to patient care, ethical practice, and scientific advancement is the foundation of this field. We are grateful for your continued commitment, and we stand with you as we work toward a stronger, safer future for all. |
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