11.09.13
Opt-out organ donation for Wales from 2015
Welsh legislation to introduce presumed consent for organ donation has now received royal assent. From 1 December 2015, adults living in Wales will be added to the donor list unless they opt out.
A two-year information campaign will now commence, to make everyone aware of the changes. Wales hopes to increase transplant rates by 25% with the move, which makes it the first country in the UK to implement a system of presumed consent.
Around 250 people are on the waiting list for a transplant at any one time.
First minister Carwyn Jones said: “The Human Transplantation (Wales) Act 2013 is arguably the most significant piece of legislation passed by the National Assembly for Wales since it acquired full lawmaking powers in 2011.
“Many people will wait years for a transplant but sadly, many die waiting on the list.
The shortage of human organs continues to cause otherwise preventable deaths and suffering.
“This law will not only help reduce the waiting list, but will also help save lives by reducing the number of people who needlessly die waiting for an organ transplant.”
Health minister Mark Drakeford said: “During this two year campaign, people will be given plenty of information on how the new system works and what their choices are. Even today, though, people can help others by ensuring their loved ones know their wishes about organ donation and I would encourage everyone to have that conversation.”
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