Borgess, Bronson recognized for organ transplantation work

Both of Kalamazoo's hospitals have been recognized for their work to increase the number of organs available for transplantation.

Borgess Health and Bronson Methodist Hospital were named silver medal winners for achieving 75 percent collaborative conversion rate and either 10 percent donation after circulatory determination of death or 3.75 organs transplanted per donor.

The recognition comes from the Department of Health and Human Services. National awards recently were presented to 307 hospitals, 28 organ procurement organizations, 157 transplant programs, and 11 individuals for their success in increasing the number of organs available for transplantation.

According to the United Network for Organ Sharing, more than 87,000 candidates are on the national waiting list. Although about 68 people receive an organ transplant every day in the United States, an average of 17 people die each day waiting for a transplant — more than 6,000 people each year.

"These organizations and individuals have all made a real difference by working to increase the number of organs available for transplantation," says Mary K. Wakefield, Ph.D., R.N., administrator of HHS' Health Resources and Services Administration. "We are proud of their efforts. Together, they are helping to save and improve the lives of individuals across America."

Health Resources and Services Administration leads federal efforts to increase organ and tissue donation and transplantation.

Writer: Kathy Jennings
Source: says Mary K. Wakefield, Health and Human Services