The number of organ donation decisions made through the NHS App has increased by over a fifth in the past year, according to new figures. The data reveals that a total of 546,825 organ donation decisions were registered for the first time through the app, marking a 22% increase from the previous year. Additionally, organ donation preferences have been managed 4.1 million times through the app. These statistics come as more than 7,000 patients are currently waiting for a transplant.
NHS England’s delivery director for the NHS App, Martin O’Neil, emphasized the significance of this increase in organ donation decisions. He stated that the rise in registrations is encouraging, particularly in a time when thousands of individuals are waiting for a lifesaving transplant. By registering their preferences on organ donation, people enable NHS specialist nurses to quickly grasp their wishes, potentially saving lives. The NHS App, which has garnered over 32 million sign-ups, not only contributes to managing healthcare choices but is also employed by people of all ages for various medical needs.
Vin Diwakar, NHS England’s national director for transformation, commended the achievements of organ transplantation while highlighting the ongoing need for more donors. With nearly 4,600 transplants facilitated across the UK last year and over 7,000 individuals still on the waiting list, the NHS App proves instrumental in enabling informed decisions on organ donation. Diwakar acknowledged the app’s accessibility, as it is already in the hands of millions, and applauded the over half a million individuals who have made organ donation decisions through it.
Overall, the increase in organ donation decisions registered through the NHS App showcases the positive impact of technology in facilitating healthcare choices. Through this digital platform, individuals have the opportunity to contribute to a crucial cause, potentially saving lives and reducing the transplant waiting list. Endorsed by NHS England, the app’s success lies in its widespread usage, accommodating people of all age groups and healthcare needs, making it an integral tool for managing and enhancing healthcare services in the UK.
