Human Organ Transplant Act

The Human Organ Transplant Act is an opt-out system where a Singaporean citizen or permanent resident can have their organs removed for transplant if they die within a certain age.

There is no doubt that organ donations help save lives. Also, by increasing the number of potential donors, those in need of organ transplants will be less likely to become desperate and resort to the black market. This will reduce demand for illegal organs. Given the opt-out system, there are some claims that this may result in people who disagree with organ donation not opting out due to insufficient knowledge. However, this can be avoided by simply having frequent reminders about this. This can be done via having posters put up at hospitals, distributing newsletters etc. In my opinion, the relatively low risk of this occurring (since I cannot think of any reason not to donate organs after death) is outweighed by the high chance of saving lives or at the very least improving the standard of living of many people.

The other alternative to this, an opt-in system, is not viable since while many might agree to the concept, they may not feel it is worth the trouble to take time to feel in a form to opt-in.

We must also consider the plight if those who need organ transplants. Due to the shortage of organs, many are on long waiting lists. In the meantime, they have to go through expensive medical treatments such as dialysis. Surely they have a right to a better life via a organ. On the contrary, a dead person does not have any use for his organs. Even if family members may object, a person’s organs are exclusively in his possession. Thus, family members should have no say over them. Therefore, unless a dead person has made a will or clearly written to refuse this, family members should have no right to decide for the dead.

Thus, the system is necessary as it has an unlikely negative outcome compared with a high likelihood of a positive outcome. It also does not have a viable alternative.