UPMC in North Central Pa. recognized in statewide Organ Donation Challenge

WILLIAMSPORT -- 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 north central Pa. were named among the three top-performing health systems for eastern Pennsylvania in The Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania's (HAP) 2023 Donate Life PA Hospital Challenge. UPMC in North Central Pa. includes UPMC Cole, UPMC Muncy, UPMC Wellsboro and UPMC Williamsport. UPMC Williamsport was also recognized as a Gift of Life Donor Program Top-Performing Hospital and UPMC Wellsboro and UPMC Williamsport received "Titanium" Gift of Life Donor Program Designations. This year, 107 hospitals statewide participated in the challenge.

"Becoming an organ donor is a simple and selfless act that can have a life-changing impact," said Patti Jackson-Gehris, president, UPMC in North Central Pa. "The organs from one person can save up to eight lives, while a single tissue donor can enhance the lives of more than 75 people. Donors provide hope and help thousands of people on national waiting lists for organ donation. Our region and hospitals' designations recognize 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 within their hospitals and 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.

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.

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