Vanderbilt Anatomical Donation Program

1. What are the conditions under which a body cannot be donated?

We are unable to accept bodies with highly infectious disease such as infectious hepatitis or AIDS.  Bodies cannot be accepted if autopsied or embalmed or when the body is in unsuitable condition for educational or scientific purpose.  Extremely obese bodies cannot be accepted.

2. How long would the body be retained by the medical school?

The body can be retained up to two years depending upon the nature of the studies.

3.  What happens to the body after the studies are completed?

Upon completion of the studies, each donor is cremated individually.  A form must be completed by the donor’s family, indicating their wishes regarding the final disposition of the cremains.   Those instructions are followed at the time of final disposition.

4.  Is there an age limit on body donation?

No, enrollment is open to anyone 18 years of age or older.

5.  Can the Next of Kin donate the body of a relative to your program?

No, the donor must initiate the donation and be registered with our program prior to death. 

6.  Can I still donate to your school if I live in another state?

No, you must be a resident of the State of Tennessee.  We recommend that you contact a medical school in the state you are living to make your donation.

7.  Can I cancel or revoke my donation if I change my mind?

Yes, you can cancel at any time by notifying the Vanderbilt Anatomical Donation Program of your decision.

8.  Will I receive any compensation for my donation?

No – Medical Schools are not allowed to give money for donations.

9.  Are any costs involved in the donation of one’s body?

We provide transportation from the site of death any where in the State of Tennessee but we only pay the first 50 miles of transportation.  The estate would be responsible for the remaining transportation costs.  We provide the following services: transportation, specialized embalming procedures, maintenance, cremation and interment in our burial site or return of ashes to the designated person.

10.  Will my family receive a report of medical findings or given details of the study of the body?

We do not provide any reports concerning pathologic findings, the cause of death or specific details of the studies.