Examining the association between media coverage of organ donation and organ transplantation rates.
Research addressing the organ shortage in the USA has examined multiple factors influencing one's decision to become an organ donor. One of these research lines addresses media coverage of organ donation. The present investigation seeks to advance this research line by examining the association between organ donation media coverage and organ transplantation rates. A content analysis spanning January 1990 to December 2005 of three television networks reveals an overall positive association between coverage and transplantation rates. The implications of our findings are discussed along with recommendations for practitioners and advocates alike.
Quick
Brian L
BL
Scripps College of Communication, School of Communication Studies, Ohio University, Athens, OH 45701, USA. quick@ohio.edu
Meyer
Kevin R
KR
Kim
Do Kyun
DK
Taylor
Drew
D
Kline
Jessica
J
Apple
Trish
T
Newman
Joel D
JD
D001294:Attitude to Health; D006801:Humans; D016377:Organ Transplantation / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011639:Public Opinion; D013690:Television; D009927:Tissue and Organ Procurement / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D014481:United States