Living non-directed kidney donation discussion document

Summary

In NSW, kidney transplantation procedures include use of both cadaveric organs sourced from deceased donors and kidneys donated by living people. Living donation currently is only permitted where it is 'directed', that is the donor agrees to donate their kidney for transplantation to an identified recipient, usually a spouse or partner, family member, or close friend. This practice has occurred in NSW for a number of years.

Non-directed donation is where the donor donates to any suitable stranger on the waiting list. Non-directed donation is not unlawful under the Human Tissue Act, but has not been practiced in NSW owing to unaddressed ethical and other concerns with the practice. The purpose of this discussion document is to seek community and health professionals' views on this policy and on several aspects on donation by living individuals.

File link: Living non-directed kidney donation discussion document
File size: 654Kb
Type: Guideline
Date of Publication: 23 June 2004
Author Branch: Web Services Development