Senator Gallivan Announces Passage of a Bill to Ensure Greater Access to Organ Transplants

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan, (R-C, Elma) announced the New York State Senate has passed legislation designed to expand patient access to organ transplants, reduce wait times, and improve medical outcomes. The bill (S.7151A), co-sponsored by Senator Gallivan, was approved unanimously by the full Senate earlier this month.

The legislation amends the state’s public health law and removes a rule that prohibits transplant candidates from participating in multiple transplant programs. The change will allow patients to register at multiple transplant centers, increasing access to life-saving organs.

“New York’s current restrictions are outdated and out of touch with national standards on this issue,” Senator Gallivan said. “Expanding access to such critical care is not only the right thing to do, but it will also make it more likely that patients will experience a positive outcome and will help save lives.”

Since 1990, organ transplant candidates in New York have been prohibited from registering with multiple transplant programs, a practice known as multi-listing, a restriction that often disproportionately affects low-income patients. While patients with private insurance can circumvent the in-state restriction by listing at out-of-state transplant centers, Medicaid recipients and the underinsured face significant barriers. In most circumstances, Medicaid coverage does not permit enrollees to seek non-emergency care outside of New York State. The prohibition results in unequal access to lifesaving transplant opportunities.

New York’s ban also contradicts national standards established by the Organ Procurement Transplantation Network.  

The State Assembly approved the legislation in May. It will now be sent to the governor for her consideration.

                                                                                               -30-