Penn Transplant Institute - Kidney and Pancreas Transplant 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104

"I went here for transplant evaluation. I’m an active, rather healthy individual. They denied me saying I could not be transplanted due to non-compliance, active disease, and psychosocial instability. When I asked how I was non compliant, they weren’t able to give me an answer. I have a history of panic attacks but was cleared by my psychiatrist for transplantation- so denying me based on psychosocial instability does not make sense or seem legal in this instance. As for active disease, I had labs drawn that show an elevated level for my disease. This was told to me on the phone by my nurse coordinator who stated rudely and matter of factly, “you also have an active flare right now so we definitely would NEVER transplant you with that!!”. This is the first time I am finding out that I have an active flare again- and this is how she delivered the news to me, as if I did something wrong for having a flare. During my evaluation with the nephrologist, (((Dr. BLEICHER)))she went over records with me, and told me in a rude manner that a past cat scan showed a node. She sounded annoyed and even mad at me for not knowing. I was never informed by the institution that I had those results. She stated, “don’t you have a patient portal??! You can look up your results!!” I just assumed I was fine because I didn’t receive a call. I also had questions (of course) and the nephrologist kept looking at me annoyed and just shrugged her shoulders as an answer. The nurse coordinator was also annoyed that I had questions and at one point loudly stated, “Just let me finish!!”. Again, I am a young girl here trying to get an organ because I am sick. Why treat me like this? This was the worst medical treatment I have ever received. Both the nephrologist and nurse coordinator were so mean and seemed annoyed that I was coming from Florida to get better care. I am originally from Boston and do not believe Florida healthcare is up to par. I myself am a nurse and I have never seen medical professionals act so rudely and angry to a patient. It truly was as if they were mad at me for being sick. I had 2 support persons with me, one who is a retired nurse. They were both astonished by their behavior. I would like to say that the social worker and dietitian were both pleasant, supportive, and gladly answered any questions. So sad. I do not recommend anyone getting an evaluation here."

"Liver transplant, coming up on 14 years and have had excellent quality of life."