Advice for doctors on using the Donation Quality Standard

Talking to each other about donation

‘An essential point from the IQ healthcare research is the question of whether family members are aware of each other's donation wishes. Unfortunately, this often turned out not to be the case, making donation conversations regarding ‘no objection’ registrations more difficult. I believe there is a real task here for the government. They must encourage citizens to discuss their wishes with loved ones. That creates more clarity and saves significant effort in family support.’

What is your advice to doctors?

'My advice to doctors is: be very clear when dealing with a ‘no objection’ registration, without any doubt about registration choices. You can do this by saying: 'There is consent based on no objection. That means we will initiate the donation. Have you ever talked about this together?'.

Then, give the family space to say something about it. The family might say: 'Yes, but our father really didn't want it'. In that case, as a doctor, delve deeper into the donor's wishes with the family.’

‘If it then turns out that the registration was indeed not in accordance with the donor's final wishes, the doctor acts in line with the donor's wishes.

If they say 'Yes, our loved one did indeed want to donate', you as a doctor provide more explanation and the donation process is initiated.'

Delving into the loved one's wishes

Has the family never spoken about it? Then the doctor provides more information. The doctor can ask what would suit the deceased, instead of asking what the family wants.

For example: 'Was your father someone who would want to help others after death by donating his organs?' Then the family can think about it and confirm or deny this. 'That did (or did not) indeed suit Dad.'

By focusing the conversation on the vision and will of their loved one, the family is not unnecessarily burdened with having to make the decision. And in my opinion, you are not acting against the wishes of the potential donor.'