NHS Dumfries and Galloway is encouraging people yet to record their donation decision to make it known this Organ and Tissue Donation Week (18-24 September 2023).
New statistics release today show that over half of people in the NHS Dumfries and Galloway area (54 per cent) have now registered their donation decision – 50.5 per cent opting in to donation, with 3.5 per cent choosing to opt out.
Throughout the week, people are being reminded of the choices they have under Scotland’s opt out system of organ and tissue donation in a bid to increase registrations and encourage them not to leave their loved ones in doubt.
People in Scotland can choose to be a donor, or to opt out. If people aged 16 and over choose to do nothing, it is assumed they agree to be a donor if they die in circumstances where donation is possible, unless they are in a group for whom the opt out system does not apply or it would be against their views.
Consultant in Emergency Medicine in Dumfries and Galloway Dr Magnus Rodrigues said: “We’re encouraging everyone to think about organ and tissue donation this week and record that decision, whatever it may be, on the NHS Organ Donor Register.
“Only around one per cent of people die in a way that makes organ donation possible, which means every opportunity for donation is precious. Help make this Week count, and don’t leave your loved ones in doubt.”
To help highlight Organ Donation Week, the Dumfries and Galloway Council Headquarters will be lit up in pink from September 18 to 21, and the dining area within Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary is adopting a pink theme.
Jenni Minto, Minister for Public Health and Women’s Health said: “Organ and Tissue Donation Week provides an opportunity to recognise the role donation plays in saving and improving lives.
“Donation is a personal decision, but whatever you decide, it’s important to make it known.
“During Organ and Tissue Donation Week, we’re encouraging people to register their decision and share it with family and friends. This conversation plays a vital part in making it easier for loved ones to support organ donation decisions.”
People can register their donation decision and find out more at www.organdonation.scot or by calling 0300 123 2323.
