What is ADP

The ultimate donation that an individual can give, is the gift of their whole body after death to advance anatomic education and clinical training of medical students, physicians and other medical personnel. Voluntary whole body donations by generous individuals are relied upon as a resource to help physicians and other medical personnel complete their required learning, as they prepare themselves to provide for outstanding care for the living.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will the body be retained by the program?

The time frame donors are retained varies from three months to three years depending on the scheduling of educational courses and studies.

What happens to the body after the studies are completed?

Upon completion of the studies, each donor is cremated individually in accordance with the District of Columbia, Virginia and Maryland law. At the time of enrollment, you may indicate your wishes regarding the final disposition of your cremains. You may also wish to leave this option to your designated next of kin since circumstances may change from the time you enroll until the time of death.

Can I still donate to your school if I live in another state?

Yes,we prefer that our donors be pre-registered with the donation program and be within the District of Columbia, Virginia and or Maryland at the time of death.  We do however make exceptions on a case by case for those who meet the qualifications.

What will happen to my personal effects?

Any jewelry or other personal effects should be claimed by the next of kin prior to transport to the program. We will not be responsible for any unclaimed personal effects including, but not limited to, jewelry, medical devices, dentition, etc. All clothing will be discarded.

Are any costs involved in the donation of one’s body?

No. By law, medical schools are not allowed to give money, or purchase a body for donation. We provide the following services free of charge for the donor and their family: transportation from the site of the donor’s death within the District of Columbia, Virginia and or Maryland, specialized embalming procedures, cremation and interment in our burial site, or the return of ashes to the designated person.

Should I have someone contact the Program when death is imminent?

It is not required, however many families find it reassuring and helpful to check on procedures at that time. We encourage such calls.

Anatomical (Whole Body) Donation Pre-registration

Please provide the following information to pre-register with the anatomical donation program. We realize more information will be required before the donation, but we have found it beneficial for our representive to give you a call to discuss more in detail your wishes and interest in the anatomical donation program.