What is the relationship between my desire to be an organ donor and advance directives?
An advance directive is an instruction regarding your wishes when you are unable to make decisions for yourself. By definition, the completion of an organ donor designation form is a type of advance directive. The newest NYS Health Care Proxy Form includes a section regarding organ donation. At the time of your death, health care professionals can determine which of your organs or tissues are eligible for transplant/donation. There are many factors that influence that decision including the age, the type(s) of illnesses you had, etc. Even if you have indicated that you would like to be an organ donor, your family or health care proxy/agent must give their permission in order for the donation to take place. Therefore, it is very important to make your wishes known to those closest to you.
