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Health Topics/Healthcare Basics/Organ Transplants & Health Care

Does being an organ donor affect your medical care?

Discovery Health
Discovery Health

No. When you are designated as an organ donor, it has no effect on the medical care or considerations you receive. It only affects what happens after your death.

Piedmont Heart Institute
Piedmont Heart Institute

No, signing a donor card will not affect the medical care you receive. The medical team trying to save your life is different from the transplant team. Every effort will be made to save your life before donation is considered.

This answer is based on source information from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital
NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital
Becoming an organ donor will have no impact on the care you receive should you fall ill. There are strict legal guidelines that must be carefully followed before brain death can be declared and organs removed. The doctors who treat a patient at the time of death are in no way involved with those responsible for organ removal. Organ donation is considered only after every effort has been made to save the patient's life.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.