Melanie Dubbelde, Acting Executive Director

I would like to let staff know that we are expecting some media coverage on 7 News tonight about the heart transplant service at The Prince Charles Hospital (TPCH).

We understand this media coverage may cause some concerns and anxiety among staff and other patients and families of the hospital.

Last year we became aware of an increase in fungal infections amongst our heart transplant patient cohort. We formed a specialist team consisting of transplant and infectious diseases staff to investigate the situation.

Genomic testing has confirmed that there is no link between the Lomentospora infections in patients and that a source has not been identified at TPCH.

Our transplant program continues to run at full capacity and currently has patients on the active waiting list for both heart and lung transplants.

We are working with our transplant patients and consumers, and taking every step to ensure they are safe in the community and while in our care.

The full reviews of the two patient cases are currently in their final stages, with outcomes expected in the coming weeks.

We thank everyone for their ongoing support.

If you have any concerns, please raise them with your line manager.

Regards,

Melanie.