Organ donation, have you thought about it?

Organ donation is among the most ethically divisive topics in many settings. The feelings and perspectives that govern and influence the practice are widespread and varied. It is, however, a topic that comes up from time to time, and one that is imperative to understand.

When to donate

There are a variety of reasons that different people donate organs and a similar if not wider variety of reasons why some are against it. On one hand, there are those who are convinced to donate to save the life of a family member or a friend. Then there are those who volunteer to donate in the event of their death. In each case, the decision to donate is a highly personal one, with almost everyone being of a different opinion. The bottom line is, often, a life can be saved whenever a person settles on organ donation, and lost otherwise.

Laws governing organ donation

In the US, donating an organ is a personal choice, unlike in some European countries, such as Spain, where it is mandatory upon death unless one opts out. Consent from the donor or their family is required for organ donation in the US. The National Organ Transplant Act of 1984 was passed to protect organ donors, making the buying and selling of human organs illegal. Organ donors can fill out the donor card and carry the card at all times as consent to donate their organs. Donors are at liberty to choose which organs to donate in particular or leave it to the medics to decide.

The Advance Healthcare Directive – Living Will document features more information on the practice, how donors can go about it, and the appointment of health care agents or durable power of attorney for health care. This document explains circumstances under which permission for organ donation may be sought from a person other than the donor, and the applicable laws.