Frequently Asked Questions

We recommend that those who desire donation register in advance. This allows family member who will be handling final arrangements to know what the donors intentions were and how to fulfill them. Pre-registration is not required and  preregistration  does not guarantee acceptance.

No. Unforeseen medical conditions at the time of death and the needs of our research partners may preclude a donor from being accepted. We always recommend that potential donors have an alternative plan in case donation is not possible. A life insurance policy, bank account or refundable prearrangement through a local funeral home can ensure that those who are handling final arrangements have what they need to fulfill their duties.

A viewing and open-casket funeral is not possible, however families may have a memorial service without the body being present or they may wait until the cremated remains are returned if they wish to have the a memorial service at a later date with the urn present. Urns are available on our Urn store.

There is no cost to the donor or family for transportation, one death certificate, cremation and mailing of cremated remains providing that the medical information given at the time of donation is accurate.

The eligible age range is 18 to 90 years old. There may be some exceptions based on the needs of our research partners.

Unfortunately, we cannot determine what the research or educational needs will be at the time of passing.

No. Organ donation is when organs are harvested and transplanted into a living person.  Anatomical donation is for research and education and no organs or tissues are transplanted.  In most cases, organ donors can also be anatomical donors.

If the death is at home and not attended by a Hospice Nurse or other healthcare professional, the first call is to 911. Once the police determine that the body can be released, your family member or the officer can call 800-928-8233 to begin the process. If the death is at a hospital or attended by a Hospice nurse, the family or nurse can call 800-928-8233.

Potential donors who have a history of Hepatitis B or C, HIV, or Tuberculosis are not eligible for donation. An active COVID-19 infection would also prevent donation. Our donor coordinators can provide more specific information on the medical requirements.