SAH wins awards for success in organ donations

Did you know that one organ donor can save up to eight lives?

That's one of the key facts Sault Area Hospital noted this week as it announced it has once again been recognized for exceeding provincial targets for organ donations, winning two awards in the process.

In 2021-22, SAH had seven organ donors, which led to 25 organs donated for transplant, and two tissue donors enhancing the lives of many individuals, the hospital said in a news release.

In recognition of this work, SAH has received a Trillium Gift of Life Award for reaching a conversion rate of 78 percent, which exceeds the target of 63 percent set by Ontario Health’s Trillium Gift of Life Network (TGLN).

It is SAH’s fourth year receiving the award.

Organ donation is a complex process, the hospital noted, and the conversion rate reflects how well TGLN and SAH work together to save lives.

SAH said it supports organ donation and noted that it maintained excellent results throughout the pandemic.

The hospital recognizes all organ donors and their families for their incredible gifts.

The hospital also said it is dedicated staff and physicians whose their hard work plays such a vital role in supporting organ donation and the gift of life.

SAH has also received a Trillium Gift of Life Award for exceeding the provincial eligible approach rate target of 90 percent set by Ontario Health, achieving 95 percent in 2021-22.

The approach rate award recognizes hospitals for "demonstrating leading practices by facilitating a donation discussion between TGLN and eligible patients/families of patients at end of life", the hospital said.

The hospital noted this is its second year meeting the target.

The hospital added that April is “Be A Donor Month”, dedicated to raising awareness for organ donation to help save more lives through transplants.

Learn more at Be a Donor or register to become a donor at www.beadonor.ca.