Official analysis has revealed that an opt-out organ donation system could save hundreds of lives a year in the UK. Prime Minister Theresa May had last October, announced that the law would be changed so that people's organs can be used unless they opt out, and the government is working out on the role played by families. Superiors in the NHS have however, cautioned that presuming consent is not a “magic formula” and will not be enough to stop three people a day dying from a shortage of transplant organs.
Transplant surgeon at Nottingham University Hospitals, Keith Rigg said, “It's unlikely that opt-out legislation will deliver the necessary improvements in donation and transplant rates alone. We need to change hearts and minds of the country.” A soft pot-out like the one introduced in Wales two years ago can be an option, where families can still refuse consent. However, the numbers in the region are small and it remains unclear whether the new system has made any difference.
