Opt in, or opt out????

Wales is currently debating whether or not to change the law governing organ donation. The result is expected in the next half an hour.

So I ask, should the law assume that everyone is a donor unless they have specifically opted out? Or, should organs only be taken if a person has completed a donor card?

Funnily enough this was one of the biggest discussions and modules when I was in uni '96-'99 and my presentation was most definitely in favour. My main argument was that people frequently intend to get a donor card but unfortunately never get around to it, or are killed before they do so. Whereas people who are seriously determined that their organs not be used are more likely to opt out.

Personally, when I am gone then I will merely be a lump of dead meat, and they can take whatever bits they want, from skin and bone to organs. My son is perfectly aware of this and feels the same. But how do you all feel??

Re: Opt in, or opt out????

Opt out - seems a good idea as people tend to not 'get round' to filling in a card - this way they will make sure they do - if they do not wish to donate ......

Re: Opt in, or opt out????

Definately agree with Opt out.

It is no more 'bother' to opt out, than it is to register as a willing donor.

Re: Opt in, or opt out????

I have thought about this for years being a blood donor once, but evidence suggests that the number of donations go down, surely that can't be a step to improvement.
None of my body will be any good for anybody, except bet sending to the glue factory.

Re: Opt in, or opt out????

I was a blood donor for 30 years before I was compulsorily retired, have also been an organ donor for many, many years and I have no objection to the NHS having 'bits' of me for others to use, so yes I agree it should be universally applied - an 'opt out', but only in very strict circumstances.

Re: Opt in, or opt out????

I think everyone should have to say if they would accept an organ if needed and then if they say yes they automatically become a potential donor. If you accept one you give one seems fair to me.

Re: Opt in, or opt out????

Good point Julie.

Re: Opt in, or opt out????

No problem with folks having bits that ain't past there use by date, but I would turn in my grave if some of the scumbags I have had to negotiate with in this passage got any, the ultimate diss.

Re: Opt in, or opt out????

If you needed an organ transplant desperately would you be as selective?

Re: Opt in, or opt out????

Don't know, I think folks have a "shelf life", so you are probably asking the wrong person.