Can the next-of-kin donate the body of a recently deceased relative to medical science?
In some instances, donations may be made by the next-of-kin. However, since previously registered donors are given first priority, the family or hospital must contact the donee medical school or the Louisiana Bureau of Anatomical Services on an individual basis to see if there is a need at the moment. When this is done, the following release statement should accompany the body: I/We, (the person(s)’ name), being the nearest next-of-kin to (name of deceased) do hereby agree to release his/her body to the Tulane University Medical School for medical education and/or research purposes.
