Every organ donor counts - you can do it

The AMA is urging Australians during DonateLife Week to seriously consider becoming organ or tissue donors to help improve the health of others and to save lives.

AMA President, Dr Andrew Pesce, said today that no one should assume that they cannot become an organ or tissue donor because of their age, previous medical history, chronic illness or other condition.

“Every donor counts and people should be thinking positively about becoming a donor,” Dr Pesce said.

“Suitability to become an organ or tissue donor is determined after death, on a case-by-case basis.

“People with chronic illness or other medical conditions may still be able to donate healthy organs and tissues.

“Organs that can be donated include kidneys, the heart, lungs, the liver and the pancreas. Tissues include corneas, heart valves, bone and skin.”

Figures from DonateLife show that, in 2010, 309 organ donors gave 931 Australians a new chance in life. This number was the highest in any year in the past decade, but Australia still has one of the lowest donation rates in the developed world.

“Organ donation can save a life and improve the quality of life for many more people,” Dr Pesce said.

“Your family doctor will be happy to answer any questions you or your family have about organ and tissue donation.

“A doctor’s duty is always to their patient and trying to save the patient’s life.

“Any decision to use a person’s organs or tissue for a transplant would only be made after death, with the consent of the person’s family members.

“Everybody has the potential to be a donor. Let’s turn the tide on donation rates in Australia and help those who are waiting for a chance to have a better, healthier life.”

People willing to become donors can register with the Australian Organ Donor Register at www.medicareaustralia.gov.au/public/services/aodr

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21 February 2011

CONTACT:                        John Flannery                            02 6270 5477 / 0419 494 761

                                      Geraldine Kurukchi                      02 6270 5467 / 0427 209 753

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