The former Federal Minister of Health, Karl Lauterbach, has voiced his support for the recent initiative by German states within the Federal Council concerning a presumed consent system for organ donation, urging swift action within the national parliament.
Speaking to the “Rheinische Post”, Lauterbach emphasized that previous efforts to increase organ donation rates without implementing a presumed consent approach have proven unsuccessful both domestically and internationally. He argued that Germany currently possesses the potential to procure sufficient organs from willing donors, yet faces challenges in effectively utilizing them.
Lauterbach proposed that individuals wishing to opt-out of organ donation could register their decision, preserving their autonomy. Conversely, those who implicitly consent through inaction would contribute to a vital resource.
The SPD politician affirmed his full support for the renewed proposal, stating that a corresponding motion is currently being prepared and that he intends to actively participate in its advancement. He expressed hope that the initiative will now proceed swiftly through the Bundestag.
