Organ Donation Live Web Chat - UK

Hunddersfield Examiner

Three people die every day in the UK while awaiting an organ transplant and to tackle the problem the government is reviewing how donation works. A donor currently has to make it known that their organs can be used after their death – the so-called opt-in system. But now an opt-out system under which your organs can be used unless you expressly ask for them not to be is being considered. This approach should increase the availability of organs for lifesaving transplants but is the concept of presumed consent simply presuming too much?

The issue is a hugely controversial one, due to sensitivities relating to religion and cultural practices, but those in favour of an opt-out system believe the facts are simple – if it can save more lives, then it should be brought in by the government.

Dr Vivienne Nathanson is the Director of Professional Activities for the British Medical Association which supports the opt-out system, while Nigel Burton the Vice-Chairman of the Donor Family Network believes the status-quo should be maintained.

Log on to our Benenden Healthcare web-TV show where they will debate the issue, take your questions and discuss your views on organ donation.

For more information visit www.benenden.org.uk