Pennsylvanians May Register Online To Become Organ Donors

Main Category: Transplants / Organ Donations
Also Included In: IT / Internet / E-mail
Article Date: 04 Aug 2006 - 0:00 PDT

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Pennsylvanians with a valid driver's license or photo identification card can now register online, at any time, to become an organ donor via the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation's Driver and Vehicle Services Web site.

The announcement of the online registration feature stems from an outreach campaign involving the state departments of Health, Education, and Transportation. It encourages individuals to become registered organ donors by telling the stories of actual donors.

"More than 6,400 people throughout Pennsylvania are waiting for a life- saving organ transplant - with at least 63 percent waiting for more than a year," said state Health Secretary Dr. Calvin B. Johnson. "Becoming an organ donor online is easy and will help the commonwealth increase the number of registered organ donors."

Previously, Pennsylvanians could become registered organ donors when obtaining or renewing a driver's license or photo identification card - a process that, for most individuals, occurs every four years. Currently, 43 percent of licensed drivers and photo identification holders in Pennsylvania are registered organ donors.

"Online registration is another way for PennDOT to support this life- saving program," said Secretary of Transportation Allen D. Biehler. "We are hopeful the number of organ donors will increase significantly as a result of the online registration option."

To register online, visit http://www.dmv.state.pa.us and select the online services menu, which provides an option to add the organ donor designation. Those who register will receive a confirmation card that they should carry with them until the scheduled renewal of their driver's license or photo identification card.

Secretary Johnson urges individuals interested in becoming organ donors to make an informed decision, and to discuss that decision with family members to ensure wishes are carried out. Additional information about organ donation is available on the Department of Health's Web site at http://www.dmv.state.pa.us.

PA Department of Health; PA Department of Transportation
http://www.dmv.state.pa.us

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