Anyone can be a potential one, irrespective of their age or medical history. However, before approving one as a donor, donors undergo assessments to determine the suitability of the organ at the time of donation.
What organs and tissues can one donate?
These include the heart, liver, pancreas, lungs, intestines, and kidneys. One can donate tissues like skin, bone, heart valves, corneas, and blood vessels.
Will donations affect my funeral arrangements?
No, organ donation does not prevent an open-casket funeral. The body is treated with respect. Besides, surgical procedures for donation do not interfere with funeral arrangements.
Is there any cost to the donor’s family?
Organ donation is free for the donor’s family. The costs of the transplant process are covered under the recipient’s medical insurance or transplant organization.
Is it possible to donate my organs while I’m alive?
Yes, you can donate a portion of the liver, one kidney, pancreas, intestines, or lung while you are still alive.
How do I become an organ donor?
You must register as an organ donor through your country’s registry, adhere to the procedures, submit the required documents and follow any other required procedures. Besides, you should also inform your family about your decision.
Can I withdraw or modify my donor status after registration?
Yes, you can do that any time. However, you must notify the relevant organ donation registry in your country.
How is the allocation of donated organs done?
It is done on various factors, including on waiting time, medical urgency, compatibility (blood type and tissue match), , and geographical location.
Can I choose which organs to donate?
Yes. You can choose which organs to donate, while also deciding the number of organs – some or all.
How are organs matched to recipients?
Medical professionals match organs to recipients based on medical and logistical aspects like distance between donor and recipient, blood type, size, etc.
