Organ Donation in New York: What You Need to Know When Applying for a License
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Choosing to be an organ donor is a life-changing decision for the thousands of people on the New York organ transplant waitlist. Fortunately, it’s quick and easy to register yourself as an organ and tissue donor.
When renewing or applying for your driver license at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or through the MyDMV portal, you can add yourself to the state’s organ donor registry, potentially saving multiple lives. Learn more about New York organ donation, who can register, and the donation process with our helpful guide.
Overview of Organ Donation in New York
With so many New Yorkers waiting for an organ or tissue donation, the generous individuals on the donor registration list can give them another chance at life.
A nonprofit organ procurement organization (OPO) evaluates a potential donor at the time of death. If the donor has healthy organs and tissues that can help a person in need, several steps are involved in the donation process:
- Matching the donor with patients: The OPO works with organ transplant programs to identify and match patients with life-saving organs.
- Transporting the organ or tissue donation: OPOs will then work with the hospital or transplant center to safely transport the organs to the patient’s location.
- Supporting families of organ donors: Because organ donation is challenging for families who have lost a loved one, New York OPOs and other groups offer support before, during, and after the organ transplant.
While some people feel nervous about becoming organ donors, the fact is that medical professionals take an oath to do no harm. Doctors will do everything they can to save your life when you are injured or sick. Organ donation is only considered after every attempt is made to save you.
How to Register as an Organ Donor in New York
Organ donation in New York state starts with registering as a donor. If you’re eligible, you can join the organ donor registry when you apply for or renew your New York driver’s license. As an organ donor, your driver’s license or state-issued identification card will have a small heart symbol accompanied by the words “Organ Donor.”
You can also register as an organ donor on your voter registration form or online through the Donate Life Registry.
Legal Implications of Being an Organ Donor in New York
In 2006, Lauren’s Law was passed in New York, making it easier to register as an organ donor through the DMV. It also created the Donate Life Registry, which gives individuals the right to legally consent to organ, eye, or tissue donation. While your family is informed of your decision to be an organ donor, their permission is not necessary to make the organ donation if you are registered.
The age limit to enroll and consent to organ donation is 18. If you are 16 or 17, you can enroll, but parental permission is required before any New York state organ donation.
Benefits of Organ Donation for the Community
In New York, thousands of hopeful individuals have a life-threatening disease or have suffered a severe injury during an accident. Organ and tissue donations give these people a second chance at life.
Many transplant recipients lead long, fulfilling lives that add value to the community. They may have families who depend on them or service-based careers that help others. The selfless act of registering to be an organ donor can save people who make your community a better place.
Statistics on Organ Donation in New York
Just one organ donor can save up to eight lives or help 75 others with eye or tissue donation. Unfortunately, about 500 New Yorkers lose their lives every year because a donor organ is not available in time.
However, New York has hit an organ donor milestone. According to The New York Times, more than 50% of eligible organ donors have registered through the Donate Life Registry. This is the first time this has happened in the state's history.
Personal Stories and Testimonials
Sharon Speer is an example of a successful organ donation in New York. As Speer became progressively sicker with primary biliary cholangitis, an autoimmune disease that destroys the bile ducts in the liver, she was in urgent need of a transplant. While she tried to find a living donor, the life-saving call came that a liver was available from an organ donor who passed away. Today, Sharon is thriving.
Another story comes from the family of a donor who suffered a fatal aneurysm in Buffalo, New York. Brian Cosen had signed up to be a donor several years before his aneurysm and was able to save multiple lives. His family now encourages New Yorkers to register as organ donors to give the same gift of life to others.
Helpful Resources for Organ Donation in New York
If you’re considering being an organ donor in New York, Donate Life has excellent resources to help you make your decision. You can learn more about:
- Why you should become a donor
- How you can register
- The donation process
- Limitations and requirements
Make the Decision to Donate Today!
New York drivers make daily decisions to keep themselves and others safe on the road, such as purchasing safe vehicles and car insurance in New York. However, you can do even more for the community by registering to be an organ donor. It’s as easy as checking a box the next time you renew or apply for your driver’s license!
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