Letter: Organ opt-outs
In these cases, an individual has been declared dead. The diagnosis of death refers to the person as a whole and not to their individual organs.
I would also like to reassure the public, in response to concerns that a doctor may see a patient as a source of organs, decisions are made in the best interests of each individual patient and there is always a clear separation between the treating team and the transplant team.
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Hide AdUnder an opt-out system individuals have exactly the same choice as in an opt-in system – to donate or not donate.
However, we feel that an opt-out system gives added protection to those who do not wish to donate and makes it more likely that those who are willing to donate will be able to do so.
(Dr) Sue Robertson
British Medical Association
Queen Street
Edinburgh