Opt in or opt out – that is the question again in the news regarding organ donation.

by Bishop Lee

Christians can support either view theologically and ethically. An ‘opt out’ position, where everyone is assumed to consent to the donation of their organs unless they declare otherwise, starts from the corporate perspective. It begins with the belief that as a society we must bias the system to ensure people in desperate need of a transplant increase their chances of receiving one. Opting in starts from the individual and their desire to make a difference; it relies on altruism and a willingness to step forward.

Around 3 years ago I was involved in considering the ethics of organ transplantion with a small multidisciplinary group of the C of Es Mission & Public Affairs Council (MPA). This was in reponse to a Government Consultation and we spent some time debating whether we should recommend a change to opting out. In the end the consensus was that we should stick with the current default of opting in. This places the stress on organs being a gift for life rather than a kind of societal right.
The debate continues to revive regularly because so many people are waiting and hoping for a transplant, chiefly of a kidney. Despite 90% of the population apparently saying they are willing to donate a kidney in the event of their death, the number of actual donations is far below what is needed.

Despite the fact that the MPAs group recommended keeping with the ‘opt in’ policy there was some controversy. A news release on the report created a media flurry with the statement that Christians should regard organ donation as ‘a duty’. I am not sure the language of duty or obligation is quite right but I do believe we need stirring on this. How many reading this are positive about organ donation but have never registered?

It takes less than 2 minutes to register and today could be the day..
http://www.organdonation.nhs.uk/ukt/how_to_become_a_donor/how_to_become_a_donor.jsp