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Why are bodies bequeathed, donated, willed, or deeded to medical schools or state anatomical boards?

from Anatomical Gift Whole Body Donation Guide
by Regina Lee

Human bodies are an indispensable aid in teaching human anatomy as the foundation for physicians, nurses, dentists, occupational and physical therapists, paramedics, morticians, and equally as important, research.

In addition to basic anatomy as a foundation course, bodies are also used for teaching surgery, orthopedics, ophthalmology, cardiology, neurology, and other specialty fields. Without anatomical donations, the study of medicine would be seriously jeopardized. Millions of lives have been saved, and countless individuals enjoy optimum health because of anatomical study.