China's organ transplant system in transition

[Clark]

http://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(11)60794-0/fulltext?rss=yes

China's organ transplant system in transition

Ted Alcorn
China is attempting to move towards a more ethical, voluntary organ donation system that can service the nation's growing needs, but, as Ted Alcorn reports, that is proving easier said than done.

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If implemented successfully, the development of such a system could have broader implications for the society as a whole, as Chinese citizens come to a new understanding of the social contract binding them together. But until the government and health system prove that they can operate a transparent, equitable organ donor system, they will hinder rather than advance its development. "Progress in organ transplantation practice indicates the direction in which Chinese society is moving", says Huang. "So it's a very important, very crucial task for us."