Quebecers Overwhelmingly Support Law to Improve Organ Donation and Transplant Rates
A recent survey has revealed that nearly 80 per cent of Quebecers are in favor of adopting a law to improve the province’s performance in organ donation and transplant. This comes as the National Assembly examines ways to enhance the organ donation process in Quebec.
Transplant Québec executive director Martine Bouchard expressed her satisfaction with the survey results, stating that it demonstrates the significant support of the Quebec population for the adoption of such a law. She emphasized the need for a single organization to oversee the entire process of organ and tissue donation, which she believes can only be achieved through the implementation of a law.
Currently, Quebec is one of the only Canadian provinces without a law specifically addressing organ donation and transplant. Bouchard highlighted the importance of creating a designated organization to manage the process effectively, with Transplant Québec being a potential candidate due to its expertise in coordinating organ donation.
The survey also touched on the concept of presumed consent, where deceased patients are assumed to be donors unless they have explicitly stated otherwise. While there is some division among the population on this issue, with 45 per cent in favor of presumed consent, Bouchard stressed the need for more awareness and discussions to ensure that people understand the implications of such a system.
Overall, the survey results indicate strong support for improving organ donation processes in Quebec, with many calling for a one-stop shop for expressing consent and more information and awareness campaigns on the subject. The findings come at a crucial time as the province seeks to enhance its organ donation and transplant rates.