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The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:
The spokesperson for the Hospital Authority (HA) issued the following statement today (July 25) regarding the investigation report on the heart transplant incident at Queen Mary Hospital (QMH):
The HA accepts the findings of the investigation report and will prudently undertake all the follow-up actions in a responsible manner.
The HA agrees with the observations that there is room for improvement in the communication and collaboration of the heart transplant team. The HA will ensure that Hong Kong West Cluster (HKWC) and the respective clinical teams in QMH and Grantham Hospital will implement the recommended improvements accordingly.
While an interim information system will be implemented shortly by the heart transplant team to automate ABO compatibility verification between donor and recipient, the HA will also look into the feasibility of enhancing the current information technology system to better support the procurement and transplant service for different types of organ.
Once again, the HA would like to extend an apology to the patient and family for the undue anxiety that might have caused by the incident. While the patient has been recovering with good progress, the HA will ensure that the clinical teams will continue to provide the most appropriate treatment and care. The HKWC will continue to maintain close communication with the family to provide the necessary support and assistance.
Lastly, the HA would like to express appreciation to members of the Investigation Panel for their hard work and valuable views in further improving the heart transplant service.
Ends/Thursday, July 25, 2013
Issued at HKT 17:46
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