Memorial University Faculty of Medicine Learners
FAQs
About The Program
How are donations used by the program?
Most donations are used to teach our medical learners and serve to advance anatomical study for undergraduate medical education. However, some donations may be used specifically for medical research or specialized medical training in other health professions.
Do you hold a memorial service for families of the donor?
Yes. All families are invited to a gratitude ceremony. This memorial service will be held to recognize the generous contribution of donors and is an opportunity for the Faculty of Medicine and the medical learners to express their gratitude for the privilege that the donors have provided to them. Notification will be sent as per the information provided on the consent form.
Making the Decision
What expenses will I need to pay?
If a donation is accepted into the program, UPEI will cover all donation-related costs, transportation, cremation, and the return of the ashes to the family or the interment of the ashes at our cemetery plot.
Will my loved ones be able to view my remains?
No. Unfortunately, viewing of remains is not permitted once a donation has been accepted into the program.
Does medically assisted dying prevent me from enrolling in the program?
No. You may still participate in our program if you are proceeding with the MAID program.
Can I participate in the program if I am a registered organ donor?
Yes. However, in the event of solid organ removal for transplant (with the exception of corneal transplant) body donation is no longer possible.
Does the University accept all donations?
We are grateful to all individuals who wish to donate however, certain conditions may not make donation possible. The University reserves the right to decline donations that do not meet program requirements. We encourage families to make alternative arrangements ahead of time. For more information about factors that may prevent donation, please see the questions below.
Is there an age limit for the program?
The minimum age requirement is 18, but there is no upper age limit.
What medical conditions or circumstances may affect eligibility for donation to the program?
The next question outlines a list of conditions that may prevent donation to the program. However, this list is not comprehensive. Each donation is reviewed on a case-by-case basis by the Chief Coroner’s Office and the Anatomical Gift Program staff.
What might prevent a donation?
Each donation is reviewed on a case-by-case basis by the Chief Coroner’s Office and the Anatomical Gift Program staff. The following conditions prevent donation to the program; however, this list is not comprehensive.
- Autopsy or Coroner’s case
- Delay in notification of death to Anatomical Gift Program staff
- Most organ donations (except corneas)
- Height and weight at time of passing
- Conditions that significantly alter anatomy, including extensive metastatic cancer, amputation, recent major surgery, trauma, or burns
- Bedsores
- Communicable diseases, including tuberculosis, prion diseases, untreated MRSA or sepsis, Clostridium difficile, hepatitis, HIV, bacterial meningitis, gangrene, or COVID-19
- Other conditions at the discretion of the Coroner’s Office and program staff
After Passing
My loved one is enrolled in the program and has passed. What do I do next?
Please reach out to the program staff as soon as possible Contact Us. We will arrange transportation and will guide you through the next steps.
What do I do if my loved one has passed away but has not previously enrolled in the program?
If your loved one’s final wishes were to be part of our program, but they did not register before passing away, please contact us as soon as possible. There is a short window of time between passing and acceptance into the program. Please see our contact information on this website, call us immediately, and we will guide you through the next steps. Contact Us
What happens if my body is not accepted into the program?
If the body cannot be accepted into the donation program, the executor or next of kin will be responsible for carrying out alternative plans.
Who should I notify of my intent to donate to the program?
You should notify your partner or spouse, your next-of-kin, and the executor of your will, if applicable.
Can I revoke consent after I register for the program?
Yes. You may revoke your consent to participate in the program at any time. If you wish to withdraw, please notify the Anatomical Gift Program by email anatomicalgift@upei.ca or by phone at 902-626-4855 or 902-620-5398.
How long will donations remain at UPEI?
Donations will typically remain at UPEI for a period of up to five years. In certain circumstances, some specimens of high educational value may be retained for a longer period to support teaching and learning activities.
How do I obtain a Death Certificate?
Death certificates will be issued to our donors by the funeral home on contract with UPEI.
