Can I put instructions in my Will for all my organs to be donated for transplantation or medical research?

In Singapore, the decision to donate organs is not typically made through a Will but is instead carried out through other means.

The Human Organ Transplant Act (HOTA) allows for the kidneys, heart, liver and corneas to be removed, for the purpose of transplantation, in the event of death from any cause. HOTA covers all Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents 21 years old and above, who are not mentally disordered, unless they have opted out.

Meanwhile, the Medical (Therapy, Education and Research) Act (MTERA) is an opt-in scheme, where people can pledge their organs or any body parts for the purposes of transplant, education or research after they pass away. You can pledge your organs by completing the Organ Donation Pledge Form and sending it to the National Organ Transplant Unit.

You can find out more information on HOTA, opt-ing out of HOTA, MTERA, opt-ing in MTRERA and the key difference between the two in Singapore’s Ministry of Health Website.