In 2019, 1,700 Australians were waitlisted for organ transplantation with the majority of these being potential kidney recipients. 12000 people benefited from eye and tissue donations.

Organ transplantation is a highly effective method of treatment for multiple conditions that result in organ failure.

Organ donation generally refers to donation of the heart, lungs, kidney, liver or pancreas, while tissue donation involves donation of heart valves, blood vessels, bone, tendons, ligaments, skin, cornea or sclera.

Living donations can include liver segments, kidney or even above-mentioned tissue. Something not often thought about is when undergoing a total hip replacement, the old femoral head (the highest part of the thigh bone) can also be donated.

Unfortunately only 1-2% of those who die in hospital pass in such a way that their bodies are suitable for tissue or organ donation.

Australia has an ‘Opt-in,’ registration system, meaning that a person must consent to their organs being used for transplantation prior to their death.

Many people worry that by choosing to donate their organs after their death, they will not receive the same medical care as they would have otherwise. However this is not the case, as a doctors first prerogative is always to treat you and act to save your life.

While over two thirds of Australians feel that tissue and organ donation is important, only one third of people are registered to donate and of these only 51% of people had informed their family.

In Australia if you wish to become an organ donor, following your death your family members or the person with Enduring Power of Guardianship must also consent prior to donation being arranged. This means it is important to have a discussion with your family about your decision, so that they can follow through on your wishes after your death.

Previously in Australia becoming an Organ donor was arranged through registration via your drivers licence. However in 2017 this was changed to become easier and you may now register a number of ways online including via the sites listed below:

• Your Medicare Online Account through myGov
• Express Plus Medicare App
• Donate Life Website
• Australian Government Department of Human Services

This article has been written by Dr Tameka Ellard