Penn State Health ends troubled transplant program

Citing growing challenges under federal oversight, Penn State Health announced Tuesday it will discontinue kidney and liver transplant programs at Milton S. Hershey Medical Center.

“We are proud that our kidney and liver transplant program has achieved a 100% survival rate for patients who received transplants since reopening in 2023,” a statement from Penn State Health said. “However, in discussions with UNOS and during our own review of the program, it has become apparent that, given the ongoing challenges we face in continuing the program, ending it at this time is the right response.”

In April, Penn State Health voluntarily suspended its liver transplant program at Hershey Medical Center to allow a performance review to be conducted by representatives of UNOS, the United Network for Organ Donation, the nation's leading organ transplant oversight organization.

The closure comes nearly two years after Penn State Health voluntarily suspended the program after inspections by state and federal regulators revealed flaws in medical procedures and poor communication with patients. It resumed transplants after getting back in good standing late last year, but new problems emerged again this spring, forcing it to be suspended again.

Less than three weeks after Penn State Health suspended its liver transplant program in April, the health department did the same for its kidney transplant program.

The program's suspension earlier this year was due to concerns about clinical processes and documentation identified during the review.

At the time, Penn State Health notified 63 patients who were on the wait list or undergoing wait list evaluation.

“We recognize we have work to do to ensure this service is delivered in a way that meets our expectations and the way those who rely on us deserve it,” the Penn State Department of Health said in a statement. “It is in our patients' best interest that we now focus on the many programs and services that have a track record of success and an excellent reputation.”

The move will not affect Penn State Health's heart transplant program or stem cell and bone marrow transplant programs, which will continue without interruption, the health department said.

“Penn State Health is helping people on the kidney and liver transplant waiting list transition to other transplant centers. Our team of kidney and liver specialists will continue to provide post-transplant care for patients who have already received transplants and specialized medical management for patients with kidney and liver disease who do not require a transplant.”

UPMC enrolls transplant patients in the program through the Pennsylvania State Department of Health.