What is brain death? +
Brain death is the complete stoppage of brain function without possibility of recovery. Organ donation is an option only after all life-saving measures have failed
Who can be a donor? +
Anyone from a child to an old person. Even if you have had a serious illness in the past, you can still become a donor. People with diabetes, hepatitis and cancer sometimes can donate their organs. The only individuals who cannot donate are those who test positive for HIV.
Will my family have to pay for the cost of my organ donation? +
There is no cost to the donor family for donation.
Will my family receive money for my organs? +
No. It is illegal to buy or sell human organs in India. In our experience organ donation has helped families in the grieving process – to know that their loved ones, ‘live on’.
Will my body look different if I donate my organs and tissues? +
Donation is a surgical procedure. Donor organs are removed surgically, and the donor’s body is closed, as in any surgery. There will be no outward loss of appearance.
How are organs distributed to patients waiting for organ transplants? +
Every person waiting for an organ transplant is registered with the Government on a waiting list. Organs are allocated based upon medical urgency, genetic matching and length of waiting time.
Who will receive the organs? +
Recipients are chosen on the grounds of need, longest waiting time and by blood group and if necessary, by tissue characteristics. There is a waiting list for organ transplants because demand exceeds supply. Government Regulations ensure that the organs are fairly distributed.
Do the rich and famous have a better chance of receiving a transplant? +
Eligibility to receive an organ transplant is not determined by a person’s financial status or celebrity. After a patient has been determined to be a medically-suitable candidate for an organ transplant, their name is added to the national computerised waiting list.
Will the identity of the organ donor be revealed to the transplant recipient? +
The identities of both the recipient and the donor family are confidential. Unless on some occasions when both sides wish to communicate.
What does our law state on organ donation? +
The Government of India recognizes the concept of brain death and has legalized the procurement of organs from brain dead persons through ‘The Transplantation of Human Organs Act’ (1994).
What happens if I come across an accident victim who is carrying an organ donor card +
Call MIOT Hospitals at 044 4200 2288 immediately. You can also call the Nodal Officer of the nearest General Hospital.
