Member Services
- Text Decrease
- Text Increase
- Print Page
Time to discuss organ donation
21 February 2010.
Doctors today urged Victorians to learn more about how they can save lives through organ donation and discuss their decision about becoming an organ donor with their family.
"Australian Organ Donation Awareness Week, which begins today, is a good time to begin these conversations with your family," said AMA Victoria President Dr Harry Hemley.
"One organ donor can save up to 10 lives,” he said. “But while most Australians support organ donation, our organ donation rates are among the lowest in the developed world."
"The demand for transplants is growing – last year less than half the demand for organs could be met."
Dr Hemley said family consent for organ donation was lower when families were not sure of their loved-ones wishes.
"Half of Australian families can’t recall being told of their family members’ wishes," he said. "Organ donation can’t proceed without family consent and if your family isn’t clear about your wishes, they will be less likely to consent.
"Registering your wishes and making them clear to your family will ease the burden of decision on your family when you pass on.
"Tell your family. Tell them why you want to donate your organs. Make sure they know that you want to donate. If your family isn’t clear about your wishes, then someone might miss out on a life-saving transplant.
"If you are considering becoming an organ donor and are looking to find out the facts about organ and tissue donation, talk to your GP."
More than 1.3 million Australians were registered on the Australian Organ Donor Register at the beginning of the year.
To record your consent or objection to organ donation, and even outline what organs and tissues you would like to donate, visit www.medicareaustralia.gov.au or call 1800 777 203.
Victorian Medical Directory
Quick Reference Links
Networks
Preferred Providers
Next
Prev