Home / Health / P.E.I. Poised to Hire Organ Donation Liaison
P.E.I. Poised to Hire Organ Donation Liaison
28 Apr
Summary
- New organ donation liaison to enhance support for donor families.
- Role will coordinate with out-of-province retrieval organizations.
- Position aims to improve staff education on donation processes.
Health P.E.I. is preparing to hire a new organ and tissue donation liaison, a position expected to be filled within the next year. This role is designed to significantly strengthen support systems for both donor families and healthcare professionals involved in the donation process.
The liaison will act as the main point of contact with organizations outside the province, as organ retrievals for Islanders are currently conducted in Nova Scotia or New Brunswick. A key focus will be on providing direct support to donor families and educating healthcare staff, who may not frequently encounter the organ and tissue donation process.
This new position is intended to streamline communication with out-of-province coordinators and offer firsthand support to families. While specific qualifications are still being determined, the role may suit individuals with clinical backgrounds, such as ICU nurses or social workers, who are adept at handling sensitive conversations.
The initiative also aims to support families who choose to travel with their loved ones when donors are transported off-Island for organ retrieval. The creation of this role has been partly inspired by the legacy of Brodie McCarthy, whose family's decision in 2018 saved five lives and prompted increased donor registrations. Islanders are encouraged to register their intent to donate online.
