South Huron Hospital Enhances Organ Donation Process
by Bob Montgomery
South Huron Hospital has implemented a new routine notification process to the Trillium Gift of Life Network.
The Trillium Gift of Life Network is responsible for delivering and coordinating organ and tissue donation and transplantation services across the province. This initiative ensures organ and tissue donation consideration following a patient's passing.
Routine notifications will now cover all deaths in the Emergency Department, regardless of age, and for patients 79 and younger in the In-Patient Unit. If someone is eligible for donation, the Trillium Gift of Life Network will reach out to the family to discuss organ and tissue donation. This is part of the Gift of Life Act's goal to increase donations in Ontario.
“Our commitment is to lead by example in promoting organ and tissue donation,” said Jimmy Trieu, President & CEO at Huron Health System. “By integrating routine notifications with the Trillium Gift of Life Network, we are taking a vital step to ensure every opportunity for donation is explored. This initiative underscores our dedication to saving lives and supporting families in making informed decisions. We urge everyone to register as donors and to have meaningful conversations with their loved ones about this life-saving choice."
Organ and tissue donation should be discussed with loved ones. Families often honour registered donors' wishes, but only 50% consent if their loved one isn't registered. It's crucial to register and share your decision. Traditional paper donor cards are no longer valid for organ and tissue donation registration in Ontario. To verify your registration, check the back of your Ontario health card. If "Donor" is not indicated, you may not be registered. Confirm your status by visiting www.beadonor.ca or any ServiceOntario location
About Huron Health System: Situated in Huron County, the Huron Health System consists of two hospitals – the Alexandra Marine & General Hospital and the South Huron Hospital – and provides regional healthcare services catering to our rural population's unique needs.
