The Future of Medicine

Whole body donations are critical to educating future physicians on the complexity of human anatomy, in developing and perfecting innovative surgical techniques, and to researching diseases and disorders. Each donation we receive is a lasting contribution to the rigorous training of our health professionals as well as a legacy of service to humanity.

Who can donate?

Any individual over the age of 18 of sound mind may donate their body by completing our donor forms. After death, the next-of-kin or executor can fill out the remaining donor forms. The donor forms are also available in Spanish.

Does the school offer payment for body donation?

We do NOT offer payment. There are fees which exist in our program (registered donor, unregistered donor, death certificates and final disposition of cremains) for the which the next of kin and or executor will be responsible for POST death. There will also be an additional charge to be determined for mileage outside of the 20-mile radius.  

What happens at the time of death?

If death occurs during the time of our office hours (Monday through Friday, 9 am-5 pm), the next-of-kin, hospital staff, or executor should immediately contact the Body Donation Program at 212-241-7276. Should death occur on a holiday, a weekend, or during evening hours, please page the Anatomical Gift Program Coordinators at 917-641-0063 or 917-641-0094, remembering to leave a return phone number. Our program coordinators will make the necessary arrangements to transport the body to the school.

What occurs after study of the body is complete?

When we have completed our studies, typically 16-18 months after donation, we arrange for cremation in accordance with the donor’s wishes. Two options are available: we can return the ashes to the family or other designated individual, or we can assume responsibility for disposition and inter the ashes at the Brick Church Cemetery in Spring Valley, NY.

Center for Anatomy and Functional Morphology

The Body Donation Program is directed by the Center for Anatomy and Functional Morphology at Icahn Mount Sinai.