Federal Council approves resolution lifting objections to organ donations
The Federal Ministry of Health is currently dealing with a resolution aimed at addressing the issue of organ donation in Germany. This resolution was initiated by Manne Lucha, the Minister of Health for the state of Baden-Württemberg.
The critical situation in Baden-Württemberg, where the wish of the deceased was only known in 35% of potential organ donation cases, prompted Minister Lucha to take action. Despite intensive care units' sensitization campaigns, the number of organ donations remains stagnant.
On December 15, 2023, the Federal Council approved an initiative by Baden-Württemberg, North Rhine-Westphalia, and Hesse for the introduction of an opt-out system for organ donation. This system means that everyone is automatically considered an organ donor unless they or their relatives object.
Currently, organ removals in Germany are only possible if someone explicitly consents. The opt-out system would close the consent gaps in the Transplantationsgesetz, potentially increasing the number of organ donors and saving lives.
The goal of the opt-out system is to create a culture of organ donation in Germany. Manne Lucha, the driving force behind the resolution, is optimistic about its potential impact. He believes that the opt-out system can foster a culture of organ donation, making it easier for families to make the decision to donate their loved ones' organs when the time comes.
The federal government has the initiative right for legislative drafts related to the opt-out system. The resolution contains a call to the federal government to include the opt-out system in the Transplantationsgesetz (TPG).
It's worth noting that the willingness of people in Germany to donate organs is high, but the number of organ donations has been stagnating for ten years. A written declaration of intent for organ donation was found in only 15% of potential donors in Baden-Württemberg, underscoring the need for a change in the system.
However, there are still rejections by relatives in Germany, leading to the loss of urgently needed organs. The opt-out system could help alleviate this issue by making the decision to donate the default choice, reducing the emotional burden on families during a difficult time.
It's important to note that, as of 2023, there is no publicly available information indicating which German federal states (Bundesländer) obtained the Federal Council's approval for an initiative proposing the introduction of an opt-out system for organ donation. This change in the organ donation system could form the future legal basis for organ removal permissions in Germany.
The federal government is responsible for the initiative for legislative drafts related to the opt-out system. The success of this resolution will depend on the federal government's commitment to implementing the opt-out system and incorporating it into the Transplantationsgesetz.
In conclusion, the opt-out system for organ donation, if implemented, could significantly increase the number of organ donors in Germany, saving lives and fostering a culture of organ donation. The resolution, initiated by Manne Lucha, the Minister of Health for Baden-Württemberg, is currently being dealt with by the Federal Ministry of Health and awaits the federal government's action.
