The body donation program is conducted with full transparency, rigour and respect, ensuring that all decisions are informed and entirely voluntary.
Registration
The process begins with the prospective donor expressing their wishes by completing the Donation Declaration.
It includes:
- Free, informed and fully understood consent
- Formal certification of the signature
- Submission of the documentation to the Faculty
Throughout the process, an individual information and clarification session is provided, ensuring that the donor understands all the stages and conditions involved.
The decision may be reviewed at any time, fully respecting individual autonomy.
After Death
Following the donor’s death, the Faculty must be contacted by the family members or the persons designated by the donor.
From that point onwards:
- The suitability of the donation is confirmed in accordance with legal and clinical criteria
- The transport of the body to the Faculty is arranged
- Information and support are provided to the family throughout the process
All costs associated with the process are covered by the Faculty.
Contribution to Education and Research
The donated body is used for teaching and research activities, playing an essential role in medical education.
This contribution enables:
- In-depth study of human anatomy
- Practical learning in a real-life context
- The development of new scientific approaches
The entire process takes place under specialised supervision, with the utmost respect for the donor’s dignity.
Final Arrangements
Once the donor’s contribution to education and science has been completed, the body will be dealt with in accordance with the wishes expressed by the donor during their lifetime.
In the absence of such an indication, the wishes of the family will be taken into consideration. If no instructions have been provided, the Faculty will arrange for the body to be cremated, always ensuring dignified and respectful treatment.
Ethics and Respect
Respect for human dignity is at the heart of the entire programme.
Católica Medical School ensures:
- Dignified and respectful treatment at every stage of the process
- Exclusive use for teaching and scientific research purposes
- Strict compliance with legal and ethical standards
- Confidentiality and protection of personal data
- Supervision by qualified professionals
This commitment reflects the fundamental values of medicine and academic responsibility.
Internal Procedure for Body Donation