HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrgan Donation FAQ- Advance Care Planning
Anyone can be a potential organ and tissue donor regardless of age or medical condition. Whole
body donation may be a consideration for those interested in advancing medical knowledge and
providing excellent educational experiences and training for medical students.
What is the difference between organ and tissue donation?
Organ donation can only occur when someone has been declared brain dead, or in some
instances, after cardiac death. Donation of major organs like the heart, lungs, kidney, or liver is
somewhat rare due to clinical requirements for organ viability and safe and dignified surgical
removal. Donation of tissue like as eyes, bone, skin, veins, heart valves, and tendons is more
common because clinical requirements are less restrictive.
If I want to donate my organs or tissues, how do I make this happen?
Donation of body organs or tissue for medical purposes may be discussed and documented
throughout life by any competent adult donor.
1. The most important step is to share your wishes with your healthcare agent and your
family. It is important to clearly document your preferences about organ/tissue and
whole-body donation in your Advance Directive.
2. Register with the Idaho Donor Registry at https://yes.org and check “yes” when
registering for your driver’s license or state identification card. All people who die in
hospitals are screened for potential organ donation.
How can I donate my body for research?
Idaho State University accepts whole body donation for medical science. This is limited to a
250-mile radius from Pocatello (including Boise/Nampa). To learn more, visit their website:
https://isu.edu/biology/community-resources/anatomical-donations.
MEDCURE, an Oregon-based program, provides services for whole body donation for people
wanting to donate their bodies to science, specifically for medical professionals engaging in
anatomical study. To learn more, visit their website: https://medcure.org.
Where can I get more information?
Decisions about organ and tissue donation are specific to you. You may want to talk with your
healthcare providers, spiritual leaders, or others who can help you make an informed decision.
IHDR@dhw.idaho.gov
(208) 334-5501
https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/advancedirective
Advance Care Planning
Organ & Tissue Donation
Frequently Asked Questions
Updated November 2023