What is the Difference Between Registering as an Organ Donor and Being a Living Donor?
When it comes to organ donation, the terminology can sometimes be confusing. For example, what is the difference between registering as an organ donor and being a living donor? They both involve the altruistic act of donating organs, but they are different in several important ways. Here’s a breakdown to clarify the differences and help you better understand each role.
Registering as an Organ Donor
Definition: Registering as an organ donor refers to signing up to donate your organs and tissues after your death. Registering as an organ donor does not affect your health or well-being during your lifetime. It’s a posthumous decision that requires no further action until the time comes.
Who Can Register: In the United States, anyone over 18 can register as an organ donor, and many states let donors younger than 18 indicate their wish to donate their organs after death. Many states ask residents applying for their first driver’s license or ID, typically at age 16 or 17, whether they would like to register as a donor. In most cases, for those under 18, a parent must give consent for organ donation after death.
Registration Process: You can register through your local DMV or online through the National Donate Life Registry. Many states also have their own registries. To register, you simply complete a form that records your decision to donate organs upon your death. Once registered, your decision is stored in a database that can be accessed by healthcare providers when necessary. This makes it easier for medical professionals to honor your wishes.
How Your Organs are Donated: After your death, your organs and tissues are evaluated by medical professionals. If they are deemed suitable, they are harvested for transplantation. You may end up donating one organ or many, depending on their condition and the current demand.
Being a Living Donor
Definition: Being a living organ donor involves donating a kidney or a part of your liver while you are still alive. These organs can be donated by a living donor because most people have two kidneys but only need one to survive, and the liver regenerates after a portion is removed. Other organs needed for survival, such as the heart and the lungs, cannot be donated by a living donor.
Who Can Register: Anyone over 18 can register as a living donor through the National Kidney Registry. However, registering does not automatically mean you will be accepted as a donor. Only people who are in excellent health and pass a series of medical evaluations are accepted as living donors.
Registration Process: Registering through the NKR begins the evaluation process, which involves providing a detailed medical history and undergoing a series of tests and evaluations to determine if you are eligible. You can provide your medical history online, and the testing will be handled by the transplant center you select.
How Your Organs are Donated: Approved donors undergo donation surgery to donate one kidney or a portion of their liver. The surgery usually takes about two to three hours, and recovery generally takes a few weeks. Learn more about kidney donation surgery.
Major Differences Between Registering as an Organ Donor and Being a Living Donor:
Timing:
- Registering as an Organ Donor: Your organs are donated after your death.
- Being a Living Donor: You donate when you are alive, at a time that is convenient for you.
Involvement:
- Registering as an Organ Donor: Involves a registration process and no further action.
- Being a Living Donor: Involves medical procedures and a recovery period.
Health Impact:
- Registering as an Organ Donor: Does not impact your health.
- Being a Living Donor: Involves surgery and potential health risks, though most donors recover quickly with no serious complications.
If you’re considering becoming a living donor or registering as an organ donor, it’s essential to consult with your family and medical professionals and consider how your choice aligns with your personal values and circumstances