“There are uncomfortable questions about organ donation, but your GP can give straightforward and honest answers,” said AMA (NSW) Vice President Dr Brian Morton.

“It is always hard for families and friends to confront death, but remember that organ donation is a gift of life, often to more than one person.”  

Australia has one of the world’s highest rates of consent to organ donation, but one of the lowest actual donation rates.  It is estimated that 100 lives could be saved each month through organ donation. More than 1800 Australians are waiting for a transplant, but in 2007 there were only 198 deceased organ donors.

“Australia should also look at adopting world best practice on achieving organ donation in hospitals. South Australia has done so and has a donation rate more than double that of NSW,” Dr Morton said.

“Best practice includes ensuring that there are enough intensive care beds to accommodate patients whose lives are in danger, and also those who are potential organ donors.   We also need specialist doctors to co-ordinate organ donation.  There is an inherent conflict for intensive care specialists, whose task is to save lives.”

“We need a nationally coordinated approach that is properly funded. Organ donation can save public money, especially in the case of kidney dialysis that can be replaced with kidney donation,” Dr Morton said.