Non-referral of potential organ donors in South Africa: insights, challenges and ethical dilemmas

Pan Afr Med J. 2018 Apr 24:29:223. doi: 10.11604/pamj.2018.29.223.14756. eCollection 2018.

Abstract

Traditionally, minimal potential organ donor referrals emanate from general medicine departments. We use a clinical vignette to draw attention to challenges related to referral of potential organ donors from general internal medicine departments. In addition, we provide potential solutions to overcome challenges and reflect on the ethical issues of non-referral of potential organ donors. It is hoped that this paper will increase the awareness of organ donation in the medical fraternity in Africa and thus mitigate critical shortages of organs for transplantation.

Keywords: Organ donation; ethics; organ transplantation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Organ Transplantation / ethics*
  • Referral and Consultation / ethics
  • South Africa
  • Tissue Donors / ethics
  • Tissue Donors / supply & distribution*
  • Tissue and Organ Procurement / ethics*