UNOS Appoints Renowned Transplant Surgeon Dr. Andrew Klein as Chief Medical Officer

The United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) has announced the appointment of Andrew S. Klein, M.D., M.B.A., F.A.C.S. as its new Chief Medical Officer. This strategic move brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the organization, which plays a crucial role in the U.S. organ donation and transplant system.

Dr. Klein, a highly respected figure in the transplant community, brings over 35 years of clinical experience to his new role. UNOS CEO Maureen McBride highlighted Dr. Klein's reputation, stating, "Dr. Klein has long been one of the most respected transplant surgeons and clinical researchers in the country." His appointment is expected to significantly enhance UNOS's medical and clinical capabilities.

In his capacity as Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Klein will serve as a key resource for UNOS staff, the organ donation and transplant community, and the public. His responsibilities will include assisting with research projects and publications, as well as providing valuable medical and clinical perspectives on UNOS corporate initiatives.

Dr. Klein's extensive leadership experience is particularly noteworthy. He was the founding Director of the Johns Hopkins Comprehensive Transplant Center from 1996 to 2003 and led the Cedars-Sinai Comprehensive Transplant Center from 2004 to 2022. His approach to leadership, which emphasizes inclusivity, engagement, transparency, and communication, aligns well with the current needs of the organ donation and transplant community as it undergoes modernization.

Throughout his career, Dr. Klein has received numerous accolades, including Clinician Scientist and Distinguished Alumnus awards from The Johns Hopkins University, the Healthcare Visionary Award from the American Liver Foundation, and induction into the Johns Hopkins Society of Scholars. These honors underscore his significant contributions to the field of transplantation.

Dr. Klein's involvement in the organ transplantation community extends beyond his clinical work. He has a long history of volunteer leadership with the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network and has been actively involved with professional societies such as the American Society of Transplant Surgeons, American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases, and the International College of Surgeons.

Academically, Dr. Klein's credentials are equally impressive. He received his undergraduate degree from Duke University and earned both his M.D. and M.B.A. from The Johns Hopkins University. His postgraduate training included fellowships at Harvard University and the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, further solidifying his expertise in the field.

The appointment of Dr. Klein as Chief Medical Officer comes at a critical time for UNOS and the broader organ donation and transplant community. As the United Network for Organ Sharing continues to develop new technologies and initiatives, conduct data-driven research, and advocate for patients, Dr. Klein's expertise will be instrumental in guiding these efforts and maintaining UNOS's position as a global leader in donation and transplantation.

This strategic appointment underscores UNOS's commitment to excellence and innovation in the field of organ transplantation. With Dr. Klein's leadership, the organization is well-positioned to address the complex challenges facing the organ donation and transplant system, ultimately working towards the goal of saving more lives through improved access to organ transplantation.