How to opt out of organ donation in the UK
THE new organ donor opt-out scheme is about to be launched in England.
But what does the scheme entail and how can you opt out?
What is the new organ donor system and can I opt out?
The new organ donor opt-out system is a scheme that will register all adults as organ donors when they die.
This new law will be put in place from May 20, 2020, in England.
It means you'll have to specifically say if you don't want your organs donated.
This is commonly referred to as an "opt out" system.
You may also hear the opt-out scheme referred to as Max and Keira's Law.
Wales already has an opt-out system in place and Scotland is moving in-line with England from March 2021.
How do I opt out?
You still have a choice in whether you want to be an organ donor or not when you die, only now you need to opt out rather than sign up.
This can be done by ringing 0300 123 2323 or by filling out an NHS Organ Donor Register withdrawal form.
And some groups of people will be automatically excluded from the new scheme.
These groups will include people under 18, people who have lived in England for less than 12 months or who are not living here voluntarily, and people who lack the capacity to understand the change.
Who cannot donate organs?
states that cancer survivors are not automatically ruled out of organ donation.
Their website says it is possible to donate if you have had cancer, but what you can donate may be affected.
If you have a medical condition such as cancer, a healthcare professional will review your medical history after you have died.
They will then decide whether one or more of your organs or tissues are suitable for donation, with parts able to be donated ranging from corneas of the eyes to kidney and heart.
More on ORGAN DONATION
There are very few conditions where organ donation is ruled out completely.
But those who have HIV or the Ebola virus cannot donate.
In rare cases, the organs of donors with HIV have been used to help others with the same conditions.