What Determins If You Are Able To Recive An Organ Transplant?

In the article, "Should Violent Felons Receive Organ Transplants?" by David L. Perry, Ph.D., the controversial issue of who should receive an organ when so many people need it is brought up. His belief is expressed in this quote from the article, "...Organs should be distributed according to 1) degree of need and 2)probability the transplant will be successful." and his final guideline, "...3)a history of violent crime." The quote suggests that if you need the organ more than the other patients, then you are the most eligible for the organ. It also says that if the other patient will most likely die, again, you have a better chance of getting the transplant. Finally, it say that the other patient has a history of violence you will certainly receive the organ.

The author talks about a specific incident where a convicted felon received a hear transplant. He received the transfer at the Stanford Medical Center. The court of law says that inmates have equal right to health care. The author disagrees.

Personally, I believe that as long as the inmate will be released within four to five years he should have equal rights. However, whether you are a felon or not, shouldn't be taken accounted for. I agree degree of need is important in the decision, and so is probability that the transplant will be successful. Age should also be a large part of the decision. An eighty year old man may not use his organ for as long as a young boy or even or middle aged adult. Another thing I would consider, is if they need the transplant because of an alcohol or drug addiction than they should not have the organ replaced only to destroy it again. They should be clean and be able to show that they can stay clean for the remainder of their life.

Also, the author says that we should all be organ donors. This problem decreases drastically if everyone became an organ donor. I strongly agree. If you had a problem with the felon receiving the heart instead of the innocent civilian, than become an organ donor. If everyone did so, then most likely that would not have been a problem.