Dr. M. M. Wines
Director of Willed Body Program
Mercer University School of Medicine
During the preparation of a will or its codicil by an attorney, it is not uncommon for a client to request that their physical remains be donated to the local School of Medicine for instructional purposes. Typically, the counselor incorporates the request into the document's narrative and the pair are mutually satisfied that the bequeathal is guaranteed. Unfortunately, their perspective is somewhat naive as most medical institutions will not accept an anatomical donation simply on the instruction of a personal will. What then is the best counsel an attorney can give with regard to a request for the bequeathal of human remains? What prerequisites are binding prior to a donation? The answer to these queries, and a variety of others, follow.
Why does a School of Medicine accept donated human remains? Bequeathals are accepted by many Schools of Medicine as part of their "Willed Body Program". Donated remains are utilized for teaching of the anatomical sciences; and at some institutions, for the further purpose of conducting basic science or clinical research.
Is there a cost to the Donor? Routinely, many of the costs associated with an anatomical donation are offset by the participating School of Medicine. At the Mercer University School of Medicine, the costs associated with transportation, embalming and cremation of the remains are all covered by the Institution, in most cases.
How long are the remains kept at the School of Medicine? The time taken with any set of remains varies based upon curricular needs. Typically, the donation is used for approximately 2-3 years afterwhich it is cremated. Generally, the ashes are then returned to the family or, at their request, the ashes can be interred at a plot maintained by the University.
Are there any restrictions to a potential Donor? Yes. Each school's program has a number of conditions which regulate donor enrollment. Some of these restrictions are obvious: limitations on height, weight and exposure to certain infectious diseases; some are less so: death as a result of trauma or the necessity of an autopsy. Details of these restrictions are listed within the enrollment forms. Thankfully, the number of "enrolled" individuals who face exclusion from the program because of such prohibitions, is fairly small.
Is it necessary for the Donor to stipulate their bequeathal within their will? As the majority of donors enter a "Willed Body Program" with no more than the school's paperwork, the answer is generally, no. In my experience, it is apparent that a significant number of individuals do include such a request within their will; perhaps to offset the possibility that an "unsympathetic" family member might try to prohibit the donation at a later time. However, the wisdom of this proviso may be limited as most schools of medicine will not take even "enrolled" donors over the protests of family members. The ideal scenario is for donors to discuss their wishes for bequeathal with family members prior to enrollment; this allows for a smooth transition into the program following the death of the donor.
How can information about bequeathals be obtained? Prospective donors can usually receive an "Information Packet" containing enrollment forms, identification cards, and other pertinent information by calling or writing to the School of Medicine nearest the residence. For those residing within a 50 mile radius of the city of Macon, inquiries can be directed to:
Director, Willed Body Program
Mercer University School of Medicine
Division of Basic Medical Sciences
Macon, GA 31207