Princeton Woman Meets with Premier to Address Organ Transplant Discrimination

Chris Unrau, a Princeton woman seeking a double-lung transplant, met with Premier David Eby in Victoria on Monday to address discrimination against non-Vancouver residents in accessing organ transplants. Unrau and her husband, along with representatives from the BC Rural Health Network, explained how patients traveling from outside the Lower Mainland must find their own housing and fund their travel and living expenses for a minimum of six months after the transplant surgery.

Unrau initially withdrew her request to be put on a transplant list because she could not afford the $20,000 minimum down-payment required to stay in Vancouver post-surgery. "I held my ground and met with Premier Eby, who was 'shocked' by the issues I raised and expressed compassion," said Unrau.

During the meeting, Unrau felt the Premier was welcoming, interested, and compassionate in addressing this issue. The BC Rural Health Network plans to continue pursuing policy changes to address the financial burden faced by rural health patients requiring organ transplants.

Why this matters: This case highlights the challenges and inequities faced by rural residents in accessing critical medical procedures like organ transplants. Addressing these barriers is vital to ensure equitable access to life-saving treatments for all British Columbians, regardless of their place of residence.

Premier Eby expressed his commitment to looking into the matter and working towards finding solutions. "I was shocked to learn about the financial burdens and discrimination faced by patients from outside Vancouver in accessing organ transplants," said Eby. The BC government is expected to review the current policies and explore ways to support rural patients in their medical journeys.

Key Takeaways

• Princeton woman Chris Unrau seeks double-lung transplant, faces financial barriers
• Unrau initially withdrew transplant request due to $20,000 minimum down-payment in Vancouver
• Unrau met with Premier Eby, who was "shocked" by the issues faced by rural patients
• BC Rural Health Network plans to pursue policy changes to address financial burdens
• Premier Eby committed to reviewing policies and exploring solutions to support rural patients