Input Sought For Organ And Tissue Donations Act

The public can have its say about a new Human Organ and Tissue Donation Act that will help more of Nova Scotia's half-a-million registered donors have their wishes honored.

"We want to raise public awareness, improve the donation process and, ultimately, change the lives of those awaiting a transplant," said Health Minister Maureen MacDonald. "About 120 Nova Scotians are waiting for life-saving organ transplants and many more are waiting for tissue donations. We are committed to helping these patients get the care they need.

"For many families, their loved one's decision to be a donor provides some comfort during a very difficult time."

The updated act will reflect changes in policies, laws, technologies and standards over the years. For example, in the current act, consent to donate is binding, but donations may not happen if there is strong opposition from the family. By more clearly defining binding valid consent by a donor cannot be vetoed by another.

The draft act also provides a clear definition of death which must be met before donation can occur.

Other proposed changes include allowing donors to legally consent to pre-death procedures such as ventilation and medicines that increase the chances of a successful transplant. The new act will also recognize common law spouses.

A proposed new step will first confirm a patient is a suitable donor, and that their organs and/or tissues can be used before the family is approached.

"We know that it can be very difficult to approach a family dealing with the loss of a loved one to discuss donation," said Corinne Corning, manager of Legacy of Life: Nova Scotia Organ and Tissue Donation Program. "If the family knows their loved one wanted to donate their organs and tissues, it can make this decision easier."

Donor Awareness Week in Canada runs until Sunday, April 25. Events in the province will raise awareness and encourage people to register as donors on their health cards and talk to family members about their wishes. One donor can provide organs for up

to eight people, and tissue, such as skin and corneas, to as many as 40.

The draft Human Organ and Tissue Donation Act is available for review at www.gov.ns.ca/health/DonationAct/. Commentary is included throughout the draft to help explain the proposed changes. Feedback will be accepted until May 28.

"We want to hear from people and organizations with an interest in organ and tissue donation," said Ms. Corning. "This will ensure the new act is sensitive to donors and their families while encouraging more people to become donors and save lives."

For more information on organ and tissue donation, and to find out how to register as a donor, visit www.legacyoflife.ns.ca .