Body Donation: The Gift of Knowledge
Whole body donation is a generous gift of knowledge.  It is the finest source for medical understanding; far better than any textbooks or computers. For medical professionals, nothing equals the human body in providing an essential understanding of anatomy.  Your gift will help to advance medical training and research, and in turn benefiting your children, grandchildren, and people for many generations to come.

Throughout the history of medicine, study of the human body has led to many major medical advances.  The human body was the first tool for doctors to learn medicine, and it remains one of the best. Most of today’s medical technology was made possible through research on the human body.  

Many people view the donation of their body to medicine as a way of helping other people for many generations.  Others see it as a way of relieving their surviving family members of the financial burden of a funeral.  Either way, it is a precious gift of knowledge.

How do I donate?
First, you will need to fill out the donation form and send it to the Associated Medical Schools of New York (AMSNY).  AMSNY or a member institution will contact you as soon as it is received.   We will discuss any questions or concerns you may have.  We will also give you details on what happens next.

Next, you will receive additional paperwork in the mail.  Fill it out and follow the instructions.  Be sure to leave a copy with a relative, friend, or lawyer and return a copy to the medical school. Fill out the donor card you will receive and keep it with you. Also, you should discuss your wishes with your healthcare providers, friends, and family so they are aware of your generous decision.   

What happens after I pass?
Anatomical study takes between one and three years. As the anatomical study nears its completion, we will contact your family member, friend, or person you identified on your paperwork in order to be certain that the information you provided is still accurate.

What is the Final Disposition?
The medical school of your choice and you will decide the details for final disposition.  Options for final disposition vary slightly between medical schools, but generally begin with cremation as soon as studies are completed. According to prior agreement with you or your next of kin, the cremated remains can be returned to the family for burial in a family plot. Alternatively, the school can bury remains in graves owned by the institution.  Some schools offer scattering of the ashes over water in the maritime tradition.

Your Generous Gift of Life
Family and friends will find solace and contentment in your generous decision to help people for generations to come.  Your gift will allow for better healthcare under well-trained medical professionals.  You will make a difference and you will be remembered.

Donation Form

Those interested in pledging a donation may contact a school directly (a list of contacts is available here.) or contact Associated Medical Schools of New York. We will answer any questions you may have and help you chose a medical school.

Each anatomical donation helps to ensure the future of high quality medical care and innovative research. The gratitude expressed by the medical profession to each donor cannot be over emphasized.

To obtain further information, please contact:
Associated Medical Schools of New York (AMSNY)
10 Rockefeller Plaza, Suite 1120
New York, New York 10020
(212) 218 - 4610