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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