Congressman Brett Guthrie and Congressman John Joyce have announced a hearing to address oversight of the U.S. organ procurement and transplant system. The hearing, titled “Ensuring Patient Safety: Oversight of the U.S. Organ Procurement and Transplant System,” is scheduled for July 22, 2025, at the Rayburn House Office Building in Washington, D.C.
“The Committee is continuing oversight of our nation’s organ procurement and transplant system,” said Guthrie and Joyce. They highlighted concerns about patient safety, transparency, and management within the system. The hearing aims to explore reforms needed to improve the system’s efficiency and restore public confidence.
Barry C. Massa, CEO of Network for Hope, testified before the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations. His testimony addressed allegations of misconduct within the organ donation system. Massa emphasized that Network for Hope operates ethically and only after independent healthcare providers confirm death.
Massa refuted claims from a previous hearing that Kentucky Organ Donor Affiliates (KODA) pressured staff to recover organs from a living patient in 2021. He noted that investigations by OPTN and CMS found no major concerns or policy violations.
Massa criticized HRSA for its lack of transparency, stating that their report was shared with The New York Times before being communicated to Network for Hope. He called for immediate disclosure of patient safety concerns to OPOs and stressed the importance of collaboration between oversight agencies.
Network for Hope denies any misconduct allegations and emphasizes adherence to ethical standards. Massa reaffirmed their commitment to saving lives but highlighted that effective oversight requires clear communication from regulators.
The hearing will be open to the public and press, with live streaming available online.
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