Transplantation and the Law: Progress toward Uniformity

Organ-Transplantation: A Societal Problem

“…In such situations, the local physicians and hospital authorities must be willing to undergo considerable incon- Although the organizational links between the transplant centers and the local medical communities are problematic, new regional organizations among many different transplant centers in several states are emerging (Bethesda Conference Report, 1968;Crosbie, 1970;Pierce, 1970;Sadler, 1970;Schmeck, 1970). Computers and teletype terminals are used in these regional organ-procurement centers to decide which potential transplant recipient in the region is best matched to a new cadaver donor.…”

“…In only one year, 42 states have enacted the uniform Anatomical Gift Act which allows persons to will their organs for transplantation merely by signing a walletsized card with two witnesses (Sadler, et al, 1970;Schmeck, 1970). These cards have actually elicited considerable interest.…”