US authorities begin decertification of organ procurement group
The US Department of Health and Human Services is moving to decertify Network for Hope following a federal review of patient safety.
The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced on August 5, 2026, that it has started the process of decertifying Network for Hope. This decision follows federal reviews that found issues regarding patient safety in several cases involving potential organ donors.
The move comes after the Health Resources and Services Administration examined 351 cases between 2021 and 2024 where organ donation was authorised but did not proceed. Of these, 103 cases had concerning features, including 73 patients who showed neurological signs that were incompatible with organ donation.
The investigation highlighted concerns regarding neurological assessments, consent practices, communication between medical teams, and how causes of death are classified. HHS stated that Network for Hope failed to show enough improvement despite previous monitoring and corrective measures.
The case gained attention through the experience of Anthony Thomas “TJ” Hoover II, who was taken for organ donation in Kentucky in October 2021. His sister, Donna Rhorer, testified at the Kentucky Attorney General’s office that Hoover showed signs of life, such as thrashing and crying, during preparations for organ retrieval.
Rhorer alleged that a coordinator told a staff member to find another surgeon or risk losing her job after a physician refused to continue the procedure. Hoover survived the incident but reportedly faces ongoing memory struggles and nightmares.
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services issued a notice stating its agreement with Network for Hope will terminate on November 3, 2026. The organisation coordinates organ procurement across Kentucky and parts of Indiana, Ohio and West Virginia.
