Organ donation pool expands in Alberta
Posted Jul 13, 2020 11:23 am.
Last Updated Jul 13, 2020 11:24 am.
EDMONTON (660 NEWS) — There will be a greater number of potential organ donors in Alberta, thanks to a deal being made with the Northwest Territories.
Before now, residents were not able to join any donation registries due to low population density and reduced medical access.
But the agreement reached between Alberta and the Northwest Territories means consenting patients can donate if they die will in an Alberta hospital and meet the criteria.
“This agreement will help shorten the organ and tissue waiting lists and improve the chances of a match for those in need. By working together, our governments are expanding the pool of potential donors, improving health and saving lives. I continue to encourage all residents in Alberta to register their wish to become organ donors,” Health Minister Tyler Shandro said.
Pleased to work with NWT Health Minister Diane Thom to expand the organ and tissue registry.
Under this new agreement, residents of the Northwest Territories can now join the Alberta Organ and Tissue Donation Registry. https://t.co/bp6VU7p072
— Tyler Shandro ???????? (@shandro) July 13, 2020
The province assures that private information will be protected, as health care teams can access the registry to see if people from the Territories have consented to donations.
There are about 600 Albertans currently awaiting a transplant.
