Public Hearing of the Health Committee on the Amendment of the Transplantation Act
Press Release
Date: January 27, 2025 Time: 10:52 AM
Berlin, Germany – The Health Committee of the German Bundestag (Lower House of Parliament) held a public hearing on the proposed amendment to the Transplantation Act. The amendment aims to improve the legal framework for organ transplantation in Germany.
Expert Statements
Representatives from various organizations and institutions presented their statements to the committee. These included:
- German Society for Transplantation Surgery (DGTC): The DGTC welcomed the proposed changes, especially the expansion of the criteria for organ donation after cardiac arrest (DCD).
- German Medical Association (BÄK): The BÄK supported the amendment, but expressed concerns about the potential for organ trafficking.
- German Red Cross (DRK): The DRK emphasized the importance of organ donation and highlighted the need for public education campaigns.
- Federal Ministry of Health (BMG): The BMG presented the rationale behind the amendment and explained the measures taken to ensure ethical and transparent organ allocation.
Key Changes in the Proposed Amendment
The proposed amendment includes the following key changes:
- Expansion of DCD criteria: The criteria for organ donation after cardiac arrest will be expanded to include patients who have suffered irreversible cardiac or neurological damage.
- Introduction of an opt-out system: Citizens will be presumed to have consented to organ donation unless they explicitly opt out.
- Strengthening of organ allocation mechanisms: The amendment introduces new mechanisms to ensure fair and transparent allocation of organs.
- Regulation of organ trafficking: The amendment includes provisions to prevent and combat organ trafficking.
Public Discussion
The public hearing also provided an opportunity for individuals and organizations to express their views on the proposed amendment. A wide range of opinions were presented, including support for the changes, concerns about ethical implications, and suggestions for further improvements.
Next Steps
The Health Committee will now consider the statements presented at the public hearing and prepare a recommendation to the Bundestag. The Bundestag is expected to vote on the amendment in the coming months.
Importance of the Amendment
The amendment of the Transplantation Act is crucial for improving the availability of organs for transplantation in Germany. By expanding the criteria for organ donation, introducing an opt-out system, and strengthening organ allocation mechanisms, the amendment aims to save more lives and improve the quality of life for transplant recipients.
Öffentliche Anhörung des Gesundheitsausschusses zur Änderung des Transplantationsgesetzes
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