Body donation for medical education and research – How can I donate my body to science?

An essential contribution to medicine and the advancement of science

Introduction / Background

Medical education requires a thorough, rigorous and practical understanding of human anatomy. This knowledge is essential for safe clinical practice, enabling more accurate diagnoses, more effective interventions and improved patient care.

The direct study of the human body remains an irreplaceable component of the education and training of doctors and other healthcare professionals.

In Portugal, body donation for teaching and scientific research purposes is regulated by Decree-Law No. 274/99 of 22 July. Católica Medical School ensures full compliance with this legal framework, promoting rigorous, ethical education centred on human dignity.

Academia and Education

Católica Medical School actively collaborates with other academic and scientific institutions, promoting:

• Inter-institutional partnerships
• Scientific and academic events
• Conferences on medical education
• Collaborative research projects

Head of Donation Office: Luís Mascarenhas