HIV organs transplanted fine for clinics

Fine for transplantation of the organs of an HIV-infected person

31.08.2011

After transplanting the organs of an HIV-infected person in two Taiwanese hospitals, the clinics have to pay a fine of around 3,600 euros (149,200 new Taiwan dollars). In addition, the hospitals face criminal charges and other claims for damages should the recipients of the organs also become infected with HIV, according to the Taiwanese Health Authority.

Five patients were implanted in the organs of the HIV-infected. The relatives did not know about the illness of the 38-year-old deceased and had therefore released the organs for transplantation. Although the subsequent blood tests clearly pointed to the HIV infection, but by a concatenation of information gaps, the doctors did not notice the error and the donor organs were successfully transplanted. It was only after the transplant that the donor's HIV infection became known. For the recipients of the five organs too late.

Taiwan Health Authority imposes sanctions on clinics
The National Health Authority of Taiwan has filed a criminal complaint against the two clinics because of the „criminal medical error“ posed. Now the hospitals have been obliged to pay a fine of around 3,600 euros as a first step. Given the threat of health consequences for the recipients of the organs a relatively small penalty. However, organ recipients also have the opportunity to file a criminal complaint if they become infected with HIV. In addition, the victims in this case could send claims for damages to the clinics, which would be significantly higher than the previous fine, said the Taiwanese Health Authority. To prevent an outbreak of HIV infection, the five patients are currently being treated with antiretroviral drugs, according to the National University Hospital in Taipei. (Fp)

Picture: Martin Büdenbender