A joint investigation by The Markup and The Washington Post has uncovered significant inequities in liver transplant access for Native Americans. Reporters Annie Gilbertson and Ben Tanen found that Native American people are much less likely than other racial groups to be placed on the national liver transplant list, despite having the highest mortality rate from liver disease.
The investigation delved into the complex factors driving these disparities, including shortcomings in education efforts to reach transplant candidates and limited access to drug addiction treatment. The reporters faced challenges in data availability, particularly regarding racial disparities in transplant access.
Gilbertson and Tanen’s reporting process involved extensive research, including analyzing liver disease death rates, searching through obituaries, and reaching out to community leaders. They also worked with a sensitivity reader to ensure accurate and respectful representation of Native American experiences.
The story highlighted the federal government’s unfulfilled promises for transplant equity. The reporters examined mandates for the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) to address access issues and develop equitable policies.
The investigation raises important questions about the effectiveness of current health interventions for Native American communities and the need for improved data collection on transplant access. As Gilbertson noted, the high mortality rate from liver disease among young Native Americans indicates a failure of the health system to intervene effectively, underscoring the urgent need for policy changes to address these health disparities.
See “How two reporters investigated inequities in the liver transplant system ” (April 24, 2024)
