At UPMC Transplant Services, we recognize the importance of organ donation. We have been pioneers in the field for nearly 40 years and are committed to providing world-class care to our patients during every step of their transplant journey.
That commitment remains during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Transplant patients may be especially vulnerable to COVID-19 because they may have suppressed immune systems or serious underlying health conditions.
We are doing everything we can to protect them. We want to make sure they reach the end of their transplant journey healthier than they began.
Recommendations for transplant candidates and recipients:
Because transplant recipients have a weakened immune system, they require at least three doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. You should discuss with your transplant team the number of doses and the dosing interval that is recommended for you.
To schedule a vaccine dose at UPMC, visit Vaccine.UPMC.com or call the UPMC vaccination line at 844-876-2822 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. every day.
How Do I Receive the COVID Vaccine?
All transplant recipients are eligible for monoclonal antibody treatment within seven days of symptom onset. A positive home test, rapid antigen test, or PCR test is required.
Learn more about monoclonal antibodies for treatment.
COVID-19 vaccination may not generate enough immune response in transplant recipients and they may remain vulnerable to infection. The Federal and Drug Administration (FDA) issue an emergency use authorization for Evusheld. Evusheld is a potent monoclonal antibody combination given to patients with weakened immune systems and without COVID-19 as a protective measure. Evusheld is not a replacement for vaccination, but an additional protective measure. Transplant recipients are eligible to receive Evusheld, which is given as intramuscular injections, in one visit. Its protective effect may last up to six months. Your transplant team can refer you for an Evusheld injection.
Learn more about monoclonal antibodies for prevention.
If you need an organ transplant, you may need to visit us for treatment before surgery, for the surgery itself, or after your procedure.
If you do need to come in for an appointment, we are taking every step to keep you safe.
We are following all recommendations from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
To find out more about what we're doing to provide care and keep you safe from COVID-19, visit upmc.com/COVID19.
It's safe to make a doctors appointment and undergo a procedure.
We have updated our facility policies to provide necessary protection to patients and staff, rolling out extensive precautions.
Before your appointment, talk to your doctor about what to expect on your visit, including:
You must wear a facemask to enter our facilities and continue to wear it throughout the building. We also ask that you follow COVID-19 preventive measures, such as regular handwashing and proper social distancing.
More than ever, we're working to protect you. You can count on us.
Your health information, right at your fingertips. Select MyUPMC to access your UPMC health information. For patients of UPMC-affiliated doctors in Central Pa, select UPMC Central Pa Portal. Patients of UPMC Cole should select the UPMC Cole Connect Patient Portal.
The portal for all UPMC patients EXCEPT those in Central Pa.
The portal for UPMC patients in Central Pa.
The portal for UPMC Cole patients receiving inpatient care.
