Body and tissue donations are vital for researchers and scientists to understand the progression of diseases and what keeps people healthy. According to the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, there is no substitute for human tissue when studying the body.
Donations help scientists develop new treatments, drugs, and medical devices which improve patient outcomes for diseases like cancer, diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s — all of which have seen breakthroughs through body donations. Medical students, surgeons, and EMTs also benefit from donations, using human bodies to learn and perfect their skills.
By making a whole-body donation, you play an important role in the advancement of medical science, which can benefit generations to come.
The checklist below details how to donate one’s body to science.
How to Donate One’s Body to Science: A Checklist
You can work with United Tissue Network (UTN) to donate a body to science in Nevada. UTN is a non-profit organization that coordinates whole body donations in compliance with the Uniform Anatomical Gift Act (UAGA). UTN is also accredited through the Association of American Tissue Banks (AATB) and unlike some for-profit agencies, UTN does not profit from handling whole body donations.
Here is a checklist of what you need to know and do when donating one’s body to science in NV.
Pre-Donation
- Understand Eligibility Criteria
You will want to review the eligibility criteria for body donations. UTN is one of the most inclusive whole body donation programs in the country. As a non-profit, UTN can accept patients of advanced ages, those with Alzheimer’s or dementia, or those suffering from types of cancer. Those with communicable diseases, like HIV/Aids or hepatitis, are ineligible so that the safety of researchers and scientists is protected. - Discuss Your Decision with Loved Ones
Talking about death can be emotional, but it’s crucial to discuss your wishes to donate your body to science with your family and loved ones. You will want to make sure they understand and respect your wishes. - Register Your Donation
You can pledge your donation online on UTN’s website or call 877-738-6111 to talk to one of your Donor Service Coordinators. The form includes basic information that can streamline the process upon passing. You will need witnesses to sign and at least one must not be a family member. If you want to register a loved one as end-of-life nears or upon passing, you will need to provide a bit more information, including a medical history. - Make Arrangements for After Death
Decisions should be made about any memorial ceremonies or services upon passing. Donated bodies will be cremated after research has been concluded, which precludes a traditional viewing ceremony. However, you can hold a memorial service or a celebration of life if you wish. You will also need to decide whether you want the remains returned to you after cremation.
Upon Passing
- Notify UTN
Family members should contact United Tissue Network immediately to let them know. If you are working with a hospice center or funeral home, they can help coordinate with UTN. Time is of the essence as bodies need to be properly stored and prepared for transportation. - Follow Program Instructions
There will be additional paperwork at this time to authorize the donation. UTN will also want to review the donor’s medical history and may do some initial testing. Safety for everyone involved is a top priority. The team at UTN will handle the arrangements and ensure the donation is placed with a legitimate education or research facility. - Talk to Family Members
Keep your family members information about the donation process and address any concerns they may have. UTN’s Donor Services Coordinators are available 24/7 to answer your questions. - Respect Confidentiality
Reputable programs maintain strict confidentiality about donor identities. Researchers, scientists, and medical students get information about medical histories but do not know patient identities. You should refrain from trying to identify research facilities or those involved in the process.
UTN pays for 100% of the costs associated with transportation, storage, placement, and cremation. After research has concluded, UTN will coordinate with a licensed crematorium for services. You can choose to have the remains returned to you or picked up at a local facility, or the crematorium can dispose of them properly per state guidelines.
Donating one’s body to science in NV is a way to create a lasting legacy for you or your loved ones. It is a meaningful gift and can provide comfort for family members, knowing that this selfless act can help others. Contact United Tissue Network today at 877-738-6111 to talk to one of our compassionate Donor Service Coordinators.