With the potential for Hurricane Sandy to hit the east coast, we recommend that all transplant programs and OPOs in regions 1, 2, 3, 9 and 11 implement disaster preparedness protocols that include:
- securing copies of their current candidate lists along with patient contact information
- notifying candidates and recipients who are in need of frequent medical care with instructions for contacting the transplant program in the event of a disaster and/or how to obtain medical care if the program is closed.
UNOS suggests that you provide your patients with the OPTN/UNOS Patient Information Line at (888) 894-6361 as a means of connecting with your program if communication is impaired. You can also direct patients to the OPTN or UNOS websites for information if a disaster impairs program-patient communications.
Please know that the OPTN and UNOS staff are ready to assist transplant programs and OPOs with needs that arise. The Organ Center is a point of contact for all member organizations during crisis situations and if you encounter a temporary disruption of services, they are able to help you with the following essential functions:
Transplant Center Activities
• Adding new transplant candidates
• Verifying ABO blood type
• Modifying candidate records
• Removing candidates
• Transferring waiting time for any candidates that require listing at an alternate transplant center
Organ Procurement Organization/Organ Placement Activities
• Adding donors
• Verifying ABO blood type
• Running organ-specific matches
• Assisting in organ placement
• Assisting in transportation of organs and tissue typing material
The Organ center phone number is (800) 292-9537 or (804) 782-4969.
Relevant Policies
OPTN Policy 3.4.11 and its subsections outline what you need to do in case of significant communication, transportation and operational disruptions. Access that policy now.
Please contact your Regional Administrators at (804) 782-4800 or the Organ Center if you have questions or if we can assist you in preparing for this potential critical situation.
This email was sent to program directors, transplant administrators, and OPO executive directors in regions 1, 2, 3, 9 and 11.
