FIMS Publications
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2013
Volume
38
Issue
5
Journal
Journal of Health Politics, Policy, and Law
First Page
957
URL with Digital Object Identifier
10.1215/03616878-2334674
Last Page
986
Abstract
Abstract Many of those who support organ donation do not register to become organ donors. The use of reciprocity systems, under which some degree of priorityis offered to registered donors who require an organ transplant, is one suggestion for increasing registration rates. This article uses a combination of survey and focus group methodologies to explore the reaction of Canadians to a reciprocity proposal. Our results suggest that the response is mixed. Participants are more convinced of the efficacy than they are of the fairness of a reciprocity system. Those more positive about donation (decided donors and those leaning toward donation) rate the system more positively. Although there is general endorsement of the notion that those who wish to receive should be prepared to give (the Golden Rule), this does not translate into universal support for a reciprocity system. In discussions of efficacy, decided donors focus on the positive impact of reciprocity, whereas undecided donors also reflect on the limits of reciprocity for promoting registration. The results demonstrate divided support for reciprocity systems in the Canadian context, with perceptions of efficacy at the cost of fairness. Further studies are warranted prior to considering a reciprocity system in Canada.
Notes
Originally published in the Journal of Health Politics, Policy and Law, Vol. 38, No. 5, October 2013 DOI 10.1215/03616878-2334674 2013 by Duke University Press.
UPLOADED VERSION IS A PRE-PROOF. PLEASE CITE VERSION OF RECORD.