HOSPITAL HONOURED FOR CONTRIBUTION TO ORGAN DONATION

Burlington's hospital has been recognized for its impressive work in saving lives.

Joseph Brant Hospital was honoured by Ontario Health, Trillium Gift of Life Network (TGLN), for its contribution to organ and tissue donation in the province. The institution was awarded the Provincial Eligible Approach Rate Award, which recognizes hospitals for demonstrating leading practices by facilitating a donation discussion between TGLN and eligible patients/families of patients at end of life.

In 2021-22, Joseph Brant achieved a 100 per cent eligible approach rate, exceeding the provincial target of 90 per cent. That means the hospital was able to identify all eligible organ donors in the intensive care unit early on, giving families time to speak with TGLN about their wishes. "Each day we strive to provide the highest quality care, including supporting the end-of-life wishes of our patients and their families during what can be a very difficult time," said Dr. Dwight Prodger, TGLN hospital donation physician at Joseph Brant

Almost 1,400 people are on the wait-list for a lifesaving organ transplant, and every three days someone will die waiting. Over 90 per cent of Ontarians support donation, yet only 35 per cent have formally registered their consent.

"Joseph Brant Hospital has made an outstanding contribution to organ and tissue donation and this award is a reflection of their commitment to implementing leading donation practices, integrating donation as part of quality end-of-life care, and continuously working to save lives through organ and tissue donation," said Rebecca Cooper, vice-president, Ontario Renal Network and Trillium Gift of Life Network, Ontario Health.

One donor can save up to eight lives through organ donation and enhance the lives of up to 75 more through the gift of tissue according to TGLN. Ontarians can register their consent to organ and tissue donation or learn more at BeADonor.ca.