Click to consent? Ethical and legal reflections on the use of electronic informed consent for whole-body donation, with Türkiye as a case study

Abstract

The adoption of electronic informed consent (eIC) in health systems is expanding globally, yet its application in whole-body donation remains limited and underexplored. This article examines the ethical and legal dimensions of adopting eIC for body donation, with T & uuml;rkiye serving as a case study. We discuss the potential benefits of eIC, including broader donor reach, improved comprehension of consent content, flexible and personalized decision-making, and increased transparency through stakeholder engagement. Conversely, key concerns such as the digital divide, security vulnerabilities, and lack of institutional and legislative readiness are also addressed. Special attention is given to the needs of elderly donors, the dominant demographic in body donation, and donors with disabilities, and the importance of inclusive practices that do not exacerbate existing inequalities. While eIC could strengthen ethical principles like autonomy and beneficence, it also raises questions regarding justice and non-maleficence. Without clear regulatory frameworks and institutional commitment, premature implementation may undermine trust. Although T & uuml;rkiye presents unique regulatory and cultural challenges, these issues are broadly relevant to donation systems worldwide. Therefore, a cautious, hybrid model that combines digital accessibility with traditional consent pathways, supported by legal and ethical oversight, is recommended.