The AMA is today urging Australians to use holiday time with family to talk about their wishes for organ and tissue donation.
AMA President, A/Prof Brian Owler, said as people come together with family to celebrate the festive season, it’s worth setting aside a few minutes to discuss wishes for organ and tissue donation.
“Organ donation is a brave and generous act that can save and improve the quality of life for many people,” A/Prof Owler said.
“It is the gift that keeps on giving in so many ways.
“Being a donor is an incredibly worthy thing – just one organ and tissue donor can save the lives of up to 10 people.
“In Australia, families are asked to confirm the patient’s choice to be an organ donor.
“Should the unthinkable happen, families that are aware of their loved one’s intentions to donate are more likely give final consent.
“More than 60 per cent of families that are aware of their loved one’s decision to donate their organs will honour their wish.
“But 49 per cent of Australians do not know the intentions of their family members, and are faced with making a difficult and uninformed choice.
“Potential donors should not assume they are too old, too young, or too sick to become an organ and tissue donor.
“A visit to your family doctor is a great place to talk about considering organ donation.
“The intention to be an organ donor is one gift that shouldn’t be kept secret this Christmas.”
If you decide to be an organ and tissue donor, you should register on the Australian Organ Donor Register at http://www.medicareaustralia.gov.au/public/services/aodr/