AMA Urges Australians To Sign Up for Organ Donation Register

Dr Haikerwal, himself a registered organ and tissue donor, said most Australians would happily donate their organs but most just don't get around to signing onto the register, leaving it to distraught relatives to make tough decisions in the event of an accident or other personal tragedy.

"Australia has a high survival rate for transplant recipients with around 800 Australians benefiting from successful organ transplantation each year," Dr Haikerwal said.

"But Australia still has one of the lowest organ donation rates in the world.

"There are currently 1800 people on the organ transplantation list and it is more than likely 100 of these people will die before receiving a transplant.

"The most important thing is to discuss this issue with your family and friends while you are well and healthy, so that they are aware of and understand your wishes.

"One organ and tissue donor can help more than 10 people through transplants of organs such as heart, kidneys and corneas.

"Organ donation saves lives, restores body function and improves the quality of people's lives - it really is a gift of life," Dr Haikerwal said.

The Australian Organ Donor Register documents a person's consent or refusal to donate their organs and tissues. It registers an individual's willingness rather than their medical suitability to donate their organs.

More information on organ donation is available in a brochure that can be down loaded from the AMA website at www.ama.com.au

Registering as an organ donor can be done at any Medicare branch or by sending a completed registration form (available from www.medicareaustralia.gov.au) through the mail.

For comment on organ donation contact Dr Haikerwal.

01 January 2006

CONTACT: Dr Mukesh HAIKERWAL 0407 599 332

Judith Tokley 0408 824 306