The facilitation of requests for the sharing of information is guided by respect for the confidentiality of donor families and recipients. Communication processes differ after eye, organ and tissue donation. Within a few weeks, after donation occurs, the donor family will be notified of general information about the recipient(s), including age range, gender and residential region. Upon request, correspondence between donor families and recipients is facilitated by the recovery organization and transplant center in a way that ensures donor and recipient confidentiality.
Because one tissue donor may help many recipients over a more lengthy timeframe, it is not initially possible to provide specifics. Communication with a donor family can be initiated by a recipient, and the recovery organization facilitates that process. With eye, organ, and tissue donation, if correspondence continues over time and both parties agree to disclose the identity, it may be possible for donor families and recipients to communicate directly. If both parties wish, people can meet each other in person, while others may be more comfortable communicating without direct contact. Either party may decline to correspond or meet for various reasons.