Gaps to be filled in organ and tissue donation, retrieval and transplantation

Recently, stories of organ transplants from brain-dead donors, helping to prolong the lives of many people, are no longer rare. Most recently, an organ donation at Cho Ray Hospital opened a new chapter in the lives of seven patients in Ho Chi Minh City and Hue.

Doctors proceed to take organs from the donor. Photo: CHI MAI

Statistics from the National Organ Transplant Coordination Center show that in 2022 and 2023, the country had about 14 cases of organ donation after brain death/year; in 2024, it increased to more than 41 cases (a record); in the first 3 months of 2025, there were 21 organ donations. Those working in organ transplantation believe that the number of organ donations in 2025 will far exceed that of the previous year.

Vietnam has the highest number of organ transplants in Southeast Asia, but the rate of organ donation after brain death is among the lowest. Organs from the dead and brain dead are still scarce, while the demand for organ transplants is increasing. Thousands of people are still waiting, while 2/3 of the brain dead people who have requested to be returned are potential organ and tissue donors. The main reason is limited public awareness, while communication and advocacy work is not really effective.

In recent years, mechanisms and policies to promote tissue and organ donation and transplantation have been gradually improved. However, there are still gaps that need to be filled. Specifically, there are still no clear mechanisms and policies for consulting on tissue and organ donation from brain-dead and heart-dead people. Only a few hospitals have established organ donation consulting and advocacy teams. Although communication work has been promoted, it is not widespread and effective enough, many people are still afraid and concerned about spirituality and ethics.

Organ transplant experts believe that well-trained, good counselors will help patients' families understand the humane meaning of organ donation and make the right decision.

The Ministry of Health has been directing drastic measures to gradually perfect the system of mechanisms and policies to promote the strong and sustainable development of tissue and organ donation, collection and transplantation. Many opinions say that there should be policies to support and create conditions for organizations and hospitals to establish a team of tissue and organ donation consultants; ensure that this team has appropriate remuneration, helping them feel secure in their work. In many countries, tissue and organ donation consultation at hospitals is an important part of the health system. This is a model that Vietnam needs to study and apply appropriately.

At a recent workshop on the role of media and advocacy for organ and tissue donation from deceased/brain-dead donors, international experts recommended that Vietnam continue to develop a legal framework; strengthen education on organ donation and transplantation; raise public awareness; provide professional training for medical staff; and establish an organ donation registration system.

Source: https://nhandan.vn/nhung-khoang-trong-can-lap-day-trong-hoat-dong-hien-lay-ghep-mo-tang-post868718.html