The American Society of Transplantation (AST) and the American Society of Transplant Surgeons (ASTS) strongly applaud Arizona Governor Jan Brewer and the State Legislature for restoring transplant services that were previously eliminated as part of the State's FY 2011 budget. The cuts, which took effect on October 1, 2002, resulted in the loss of Medicaid eligibility for approximately 100 patients awaiting life-saving donor organs.

AST President Dr. Maryl Johnson and ASTS President Dr. Michael Abecassis commend Governor Jan Brewer and state leaders, including Representatives Anna Tovar, John Kavanagh and Dr. Matt Heinz, for working collectively to resolve this very challenging Medicaid issue.

"When I met with Arizona leaders in Phoenix, it was obvious that no one wanted patients to go without coverage for life-saving transplants," states Dr. Johnson. "We are encouraged and pleased that Governor Brewer and the legislature were able to restore critical Medicaid coverage for transplant candidates... truly preserving the gift of life for those on the wait list in Arizona."

"The challenges faced by Arizona and many states attempting to preserve the long-term viability and stability of their budgets present many obstades for all involved," states Dr. Abecassis. "The AST and ASTS recognize the financial difficulties that states face, and therefore applaud the decision by the state of Arizona to restore coverage for transplantation services."

About AST
The American Society of Transplantation is an international organization of transplant professionals who are dedicated to advancing the field of transplantation and improving patient care by promoting research, education, advocacy and organ donation. The Society comprises more than 3,200 transplant physicians, surgeons, scientists and allied health professionals. For more information about the society, go to www.a-s-t.org.

About ASTS
Established in 1974, the American Society of Transplant Surgeons (AST) is the older transplant society serving over 1700 surgeons, physicians, scientists, pharmacists, coordinators, and advanced transplant providers. ASTS is committed to fostering the practice and science of transplantation and guiding those who make the policy decisions by advocating for comprehensive and innovative solutions to the needs of our members and their patients. For more information about the Society, go to www.asts.org.