Soft Opt Out Organ Donation Scheme

SNP MSP Gordon Macdonald has welcomed the Scottish Government’s decision to introduce legislation for a soft opt-out system of organ and tissue donation, which was backed by 82% of those who contributed to their consultation.

The 14-week consultation looked at various ways to increase the number of people being referred to the donation services in Scotland.

Currently in Scotland, organ and/or tissue donation after a person’s death only occurs if they have given advance authorisation or if their nearest relative authorises on their behalf.

A soft opt out, or deemed authorisation system, means that a donation can go ahead if the person has not opted out or told their family they do not wish to donate.

Commenting Gordon Macdonald MSP for Edinburgh Pentlands said:

"Today's decision to legislate for a soft opt-out system is great news for our health service.

“With the amazing help of donors and their families, NHS Scotland has already made great progress, including a 34% increase in donors this past year alone. Scotland now has the highest donor rate in the UK.

"However, we can do better and moving to a soft opt-out system is a really important step towards further reducing the number of people in Edinburgh Pentlands waiting for transplants.

"We should always keep in mind the tragic circumstances that give rise to organ donation and forever appreciate the selfless acts of donors and their families that enable others to live. Organ and tissue donation saves lives and is one of the greatest gifts a person can give.”