The lawmaker representing Delta North Senatorial District, Sen. Ned Nwoko, has suggested the use of mandatory consent donor card to ease organ donation in the country.
He made the suggestion in an interview in Abuja on Wednesday.
He said that the consent donor card should be a form of proof to be carried by people to indicate their consent to the use of their organs for transplant surgery in the event of their death.
He added that this would help to overcome shortage of organs for transplant, which left many individuals in need of life-saving transplant without viable options.
He encouraged more people to participate in organ donation to save lives and improve healthcare outcomes for those in need.
The lawmaker said that he had already proposed a bill to give legislative backing to the call and currently before the senate.
He explained that the proposed bill seeks to alter the National Health Act of 2014 to establish a mandatory donor card system to tackle related matters.
He said that the primary emphasis of the bill is to increase the number of organs available for transplantation, adding that “the legislation is to encourage people to participate in organ donation, ultimately expanding the pool of potential donors.
“The implementation of mandatory donor card system can streamline the organ donation process by eliminating difficult decisions during moments of crisis by family members.
“When individuals consent to organ donation through their donor cards, it ensures a more efficient and effective procedure.
“The move can also lead to a cultural shift in attitude toward organ donation, increasing understanding and support among Nigerians.
“This change in perception has the potential to positively influence the country’s healthcare landscape.
“By incorporating the mandatory donor card provision into the existing National Health Act, it
demonstrates commitment to addressing critical healthcare needs and promoting ethical and transparent practices in organ donation.
“This proposed legislation aligns with international best practices in organ donation and transplantation.”
Nwoko further said that the focus on mandatory donor card system reflects a promising opportunity to strengthen the healthcare system’s capacity to facilitate donation and transplantation.
“The potential advantages include increased availability of organs, streamlined process,
heightened public awareness, and the integration of best practices.”
