England could have a new opt-out organ donation system in place by the year 2020. Adults will be considered organ donors unless they officially opt-out.
The proposed law is expected to save up to 700 lives every year.
Parliament have to approve ‘Max’s Law’ in order for the opt-out system to be put in place. The House of Commons are set to make their decision this autumn.
The law has been named after Max Johnson, who received a life saving heart transplant. It is believed Prime Minister Theresa May was inspired by the 10-year-old’s moving transplant story.
Wales has a ‘soft’ opt-out organ donation system in place. People who haven't recorded an organ donation decision on the NHS Organ Donation Register, will be treated as being in favour of organ donation. This is known as deemed consent.
They stressed that the soft opt-out system ensures your family will always be involved in discussions about organ donation.
One organ donor can potentially save up to nine lives, which is huge considering there are over 7,000 people currently waiting on organ donations across the United Kingdom.
The proposed legislation has the potential to save hundreds of lives, as well as promoting discussions about organ donation.
The government hopes this legislation will inspire people to discuss organ donation with their loved ones so their family are clear about their wishes when they pass away.
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