New Human Organ Transplant Act

SINGAPORE New Human Organ Transplant Act (HOTA) What it means to you In Singapore, there are many people suffering from organ failure. More than 600 people are currently waiting for an organ transplant. This waiting list is increasing because of the shortage of organs and tissues. On Jan 6, 2004, the Human Organ Transplant (Amendment) Bill was passed by Parliament. Commencing on Jul 1, 2004, it will allow more Singaporeans to benefit from cadaveric organs. Infographics journalist SIMON ANG explains the атеndments to НОТА: Cornea I To extend HOTA beyond kidney to also include liver, heart and cornea I To extend HOTA beyond deaths due to accidents to include all causes of death I To extend HOTA beyond cadaveric donation to also include living donor organ transplantation. Heart About 60 to 80 patients with organ failure will benefit from the additional organs each year. Liver Kidney The original 1987 Human Organ Transplant Act The Act allows for kidneys to be removed for the purpose of transplantation in the event of death due to accidents. All non-Muslim Singapore citizens and permanent residents between the ages of 21 and 60 years are included under HOTA. They will have priority in receiving a cadaveric organ if they need one. However, they can also opt out of HOTA if they do not wish to donate their organs when they die. Muslim citizens can opt-in to donate their organs. The opt-out fom can be obtained from: - All public hospitals and polyclinics - Organ Donor Registry (c/o Block 3 Room 9, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169608, Tel: 63214390) - MOH website: www.moh.gov.sg For more infomation on HOTA - MOH website: www.moh.gov.sg E-mail: [email protected] HOTA Hotline: 1800-2254-122 Information courtesy of Ministry of Health HOTA