The Welsh Government has welcomed the British Medical Association’s backing for a soft opt-out system of organ donation.
In a report published on Monday, the BMA says it believes that the introduction of an “opt-out” system for organ donation, with appropriate safeguards, would transform people’s lives.
The Welsh Government is already in the process of introducing legislation for the UK’s first soft opt-out system for organ and tissue donation, and recently conducted an extensive public consultation on how such a system would work.
A soft opt-out system means unless an individual makes an objection, their organs and tissues will be available for donation after their death. Relatives would also be involved in the decision making process around donation. Our soft op-out system will not change how patients are cared for up to and including the time of death: this is something which is covered by strict guidelines.
Health Minister Lesley Griffiths said: “The BMA’s report is helpful addition to further inform the debate on how organ donation can be improved across the UK.
“The report acknowledges the excellent progress made to date to increase the numbers of deceased donor organs available for life-saving transplant.
“There have been major changes and significant improvements to the organ donation system in the Wales but people are still dying whilst waiting for a transplant. The Welsh Government is committed to further increasing the numbers of organs available by introducing a soft opt-out system of organ donation.
“The BMA report reaffirms that such a system is the best option for the UK, and backs our view that countries with an opt-out system tend to have higher donation rates. I am proud that Wales is set to be the first UK country to introduce an opt-out system.”