It Starts with a Choice
The decision to become an organ donor is a personal one. Additionally, there are laws and state regulations in place, like the National Organ Transplant Act (NOTA) of 1984 and the Uniform Anatomical Gift Act (UAGA), of which both California and Nevada have adopted versions. They ensure that organ donation and transplantation are carried out ethically and respectfully.
When you register as an organ donor, you make your wishes clear. Organizations, including the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), and other regulatory agencies work to make sure your gift is handled with integrity.
If someone hasn’t registered, their family makes the decision with the help of their region’s Organ Procurement Organization (OPO), like Donor Network West. The focus is always on honoring the donor’s legacy and supporting their loved ones with care.