Houston hospital halts liver and kidney transplants as it investigates ‘inappropriate changes’ to patient records

Houston hospital suspends liver and kidney transplants amid probe into 'inappropriate changes' to patient records. Stay updated.

Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center in Houston has suspended liver and kidney transplant procedures following revelations of record alterations by one of its physicians.

 

The hospital's investigation into "inappropriate changes" to liver donor acceptance criteria, potentially affecting patients' eligibility for organ transplants, has prompted a comprehensive inquiry by multiple federal health agencies.

 

According to hospital officials, the alterations rendered candidates on the liver transplant waiting list inactive, preventing them from receiving organ donation offers.

 

The US Department of Health and Human Services has initiated investigations to address the severity of these allegations and ensure equitable access to transplant services.

 

While the physician under investigation remains unnamed by Memorial Hermann, reports from The New York Times suggest Dr. Steve Bynon Jr., a prominent transplant surgeon, as the individual responsible for the alterations. Dr. Bynon, affiliated with UT Health Houston, has garnered recognition for his expertise and surgical outcomes in abdominal organ transplantation.

 

The unfolding controversy has left patients like Mandy Sears, who has been awaiting a kidney transplant for six years, in uncertainty. Sears, upon learning about the program's suspension, expressed concerns about her eligibility and questioned the integrity of the transplant process amid the allegations.

 

Memorial Hermann's decision to temporarily halt liver and kidney transplants underscores the gravity of the situation and the imperative for transparency and accountability in organ allocation procedures. As investigations unfold, patients like Sears await clarity and assurance regarding their transplant prospects.