Presumed consent.

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shanshee_allures S
shanshee_allures Mar 5, 2008 20:39:11
Replying to grufty jim

grufty jim wrote:
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.

Well part (a) seems fine and reasonable, but I thought that this was designed to alleivate the problems that could arise re (b).

I mean, I would imagine that it's difficult alot of the time to expect someone grieving for a loved one to make such a decision. I imagine that's why most organs 'go to waste' basically.

I was under the impression that in part this was such a good idea because it removes that burden also.

As I said, the implications re children and those not of 'sound mind' are quite vast, but maybe where we can we have to be encouraged to be hard and fast about it.

EDIT: http://www.bma.org.uk/ap.nsf/Content/OrganDonationPresumedConsent


There is something positive here in that although relatives can object, it does seem more likely, according to this report anyway, that knowledge their loved one(s) 'gave consent' (as this would amount to) would suffice and too remove for them the burden of having to go into any decision making. Makes sense I suppose.
I wouldn't like to think however my wishes could be overrode either.
Moot point maybe.
Where children are concerned, it does seem much more difficult.

x

G grufty jim
grufty jim Mar 5, 2008 23:45:56
Replying to shanshee_allures

With regards to point (b) though; as I've written elsewhere, it is absolutely vital -- in my opinion -- that a person's loved ones feel in control of the body of the deceased. Denying them that control may potentially, in some circumstances, result in significant trauma (specifically in the case of those who are experiencing denial and have yet to work through it).

This is why I completely reject the idea that "maybe where we can we have to be encouraged to be hard and fast about it". Under a system of presumed consent, organ banks would see a massive increase in donations above and beyond current levels anyway. Other countries have demonstrated that very few people / families (percentage-wise) refuse to allow organs from a dead relative to be used. Most people see it as a way to salvage something from the death... the idea that hopefully someone else will get a new lease of life. But for those who don't feel that way; for one reason or another; it is completely inappropriate for a government or organisation to assert ownership of the body and usurp their control. To do so could cause lasting damage in my view.