The rich and famous receive organs first - There are those who contend that celebrities and the wealthy are bumped to the top of the transplant waiting list. Consequently, they oppose becoming organ donors because they believe that the rich and famous are given priority over ordinary Americans.

"In actuality," Scheff explains, "there are very strict rules for the distribution of organs. These rules are established by UNOS, and decisions are based on need, not money or how well-known you are." Scheff notes that a host of other factors also come into play. For example, individuals on the waiting list are matched with donor organs based on: blood and tissue types; medical need; length of time waiting; as well as size and weight of the donors and recipients.

Organs are sold for profit - Another misperception held by some is that health care providers encourage organ donations because they can then sell the organs and reap financial gain.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, not only is this untrue, but it's absolutely unlawful - "The National Organ Transplant Act (Public Law 95-507) makes it illegal to sell human organs and tissues in the United States. Violators are subject to fines and imprisonment."

Steps to being a donor

"While choosing whether or not to become an organ donor is clearly a personal decision, if someone does opt to be a donor, it's important to then take the steps necessary to ensure that this decision is adhered to," says Scheff.

Those steps include:

Signing a donor card or indicating on your driver's license that you are an organ donor. (To receive a donor card, visit www.donatelife.) Putting your decision in writing. Since laws differ from state to state, log onto www.donatelife to find out what your state's specific requirements are regarding organ donation. Informing family members that you want to be an organ donor. Making your loved ones aware of your desire to donate your organs will help ensure that your wishes are respected in the event of your death.

For more information about organ donation, go to:

www.donatelife

wwwandonor

www.unos

SOURCE Health Net, Inc.

www.healthnet