Why both skills and compassion matter in improving organ and tissue donation

(Southwest Transplant Alliance) – For something so critically important, organ and tissue donation are woefully misunderstood. There are numerous myths and misconceptions – some of them dangerous – swirling around the donation of lifesaving gifts such as hearts, kidneys, corneas, skin and heart valves. There’s also virtually no awareness of the people who work for one of the nation’s 56 not-for-profit organ procurement organizations. The nation’s organ donation community employs trained and highly skilled professionals who have the medical expertise to coordinate the donation process. Related Stories Much more than just technical skills are needed to excel in the field of organ and tissue recovery. What’s needed are compassion and respect that can give the gift of hope to donor families experiencing the tragic loss of a loved one. Those providing this specialized care must – and do – hone these skills from instructors who care about their students. There’s tremendous pressure on organ procurement organizations, including the Southwest Transplant Alliance, to hire people with the right skills. With the correct blend of innovative practices and highly trained and skilled employees, we can reduce the waiting list for organs in this country and help improve and save the lives of...