Organ and tissue donation can save lives. Today many organs and tissues can be transplanted, including the kidneys, liver, heart, lungs and the pancreas. Tissues that can be donated include bone, skin (for severe burn victims), bone marrow, corneas, blood vessels, certain heart valves, ligaments, nerves and cartilage. Organ and tissue donations are also valuable in research, which is the key to making progress in the fight against disease.
Because it saves lives. The more donors there are, the more lives can be saved. Each year thousands of people receive transplants. New drugs and improved surgical techniques have made transplants more successful. Unfortunately, many people desperately need organs and tissues, but not enough are available.
Anyone can make the decision to be a donor. Individuals under age 18 must have a parent or guardian's signature on a donor card or to place the donor designation on their driver's license. It also is important to inform your family about your decision to donate. Your medical history at the time of death will determine what organs and tissue can be donated.
Designating your intent to be a donor on your license or donor card is a valid and legal gift document. Share your decision with your family so they are aware and can help carry out your wishes. Many families find comfort in knowing ahead of time what their loved one's wishes are regarding organ and tissue donation. Donor cards are available through UPMC in central Pa. and by contacting the Gift of Life Donor Program at 1-800-366-6771. You may also choose to have the designation of organ donor noted on your driver's license.
Donated organs are removed surgically, in a routine operation similar to any other surgery. Donation does not disfigure the body or change the way it looks in the casket.
Yes, you can change your mind at any time. Please be sure to tell your family.
All major religions approve of organ and tissue donation and consider it the highest expression of compassion and generosity.
By the time your Last Will and Testament is read, it is too late for any organs to be donated. You can designate your wishes in your Living Will. It is very important that you discuss your desire to be a donor with your family.
People of all ages and medical histories should consider themselves potential donors. All donors are evaluated on a case-by-case basis at time of death.
The UPMC Central PA Portal provides patients with convenient and secure access to their health information right at their fingertips. View test results. Get virtual care. Message your care team. Schedule and manage appointments. And much more.
Log-In or Sign Up TodayWhen it comes to health care for you and your family, UPMC is here. It's easy to find the right doctor, health screenings, programs, classes, and more.
Contact UPMC in central Pa.Your health information, right at your fingertips. Select MyUPMC to access your UPMC health information. For patients of UPMC-affiliated doctors in Central Pa, select UPMC Central Pa Portal. Patients of UPMC Cole should select the UPMC Cole Connect Patient Portal.
The portal for all UPMC patients EXCEPT those in Central Pa.
The portal for UPMC patients in Central Pa.
The portal for UPMC Cole patients receiving inpatient care.
