Presumed consent. | Forum — The Modern Antiquarian

shanshee_allures Mar 5, 2008 19:37:18

The idea's banded about once in a while, is hitting the news again, so wondering what y'all think of the idea of an 'opt out' organ donor scheme.

Saves you thinking about death (which probably puts alot of folks off registering) and at the same time you can save someone else's life after you're finished with yours.

I suppose there are iusses surrounding children or those with learning diffiulties/mental health problems, which I admit I haven't fully thought out, but in essence I think it's a good thing.

Oh and I suppose some contention over 'religion' would rear it's pesky head, but then wouldn't the 'opt out' bit cover that?

grufty jim Mar 5, 2008 19:44:59

Replying to shanshee_allures

Personally I think it's a great idea.

What needs to be borne in mind is that (a) a person can opt-out by signing up to a register; and (b) the next of kin can block organ donation if they have a problem with it.

So there's no real chance of having your organs harvested should it be a problem with either yourself or your loved-ones. Countries which have adopted this policy have -- overnight -- ended the shortage for most organs and slashed waiting lists.

If there is a problem, it's going to be the financial cost. Transplant surgery and rehab is extremely expensive. If the NHS finds itself performing (let's say) twice as many transplants per annum then it'll have to either get additional funding from the government (unlikely) or else divert funds from elsewhere within the NHS (more likely).

handofdave Mar 11, 2008 02:29:04

Replying to shanshee_allures

What? And not be whole when resurrection day comes?

I've never figured that one out.... how is a rotted, skeletal remains of a person supposed to be any more or less suited for some miraculous restoration? If 'the Lord' is able to bring a stiff back from the grave, I'm sure he can replace a few missing organs.

I think it's a very good idea.