UPMC Researchers Named as Susan G Komen® Scholars and Advisors

August 19, 2022

WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. – UPMC in North Central Pa. is receiving statewide recognition for its efforts to support and raise awareness about organ, eyes, and tissue donation.

UPMC hospitals and clinics in the North Central Pa. Region were named among the three top-performing health systems for eastern Pennsylvania in The Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania’s (HAP) 2022 Donate Life PA Hospital Challenge. UPMC in North Central Pa. includes UPMC Cole, UPMC Lock Haven, UPMC Muncy, UPMC Wellsboro and UPMC Williamsport. UPMC Wellsboro and UPMC Williamsport are designated “Titanium” performers with the Gift of Life Donor Program.

“Becoming an organ donor is a simple action and takes only a few minutes to sign up, but the impact can be life-changing,” said Patti Jackson-Gehris, president, UPMC in North Central Pa. “Donors help thousands of people on national waiting lists for organ donation. They give our patients and their loved ones the hope and renewal that come with a new organ. Our region’s designation as a top performer recognizes the efforts our providers and staff make every day in our commitment to supporting organ donation as a viable life-saving option.”

The annual campaign encourages Pennsylvania hospitals to increase organ, eye and tissue donation awareness and designations internally and externally with their surrounding communities. HAP partnered with the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the two organ procurement organizations serving Pennsylvania—the Center for Organ Recovery & Education and Gift of Life Donor Program—to support the challenge.

“HAP recognizes the hospital teams dedicating their time, energy, resources and passion to supporting organ donation—even as they continue to navigate the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and a workforce crisis,” HAP President and CEO Andy Carter said. “The hospital community is proud to join our partners in encouraging Pennsylvanians to consider organ donation. One donor can save up to eight lives and enhance up to 75 others.”

UPMC in North Central Pa. promotes organ donation through various events throughout the region including special flag-raising ceremonies highlighting the kickoff of National Donate Life Month. The system also provides education and encouragement to consider organ donation through social media, system marketing and community outreach.

This year, 109 hospitals statewide participated in the challenge. A full list of hospital designations resulting from the challenge, and more information about the scoring process, can be found at HAP’s website.

To learn more about organ donation or to register to become a donor with UPMC Transplant Services, visit UPMC.com/DonateLife.