A student proposal for ethical guidelines in anatomical education: ethical and policy considerations

Abstract

The recent publication of a story regarding anatomical dissection in a medical school reveals that increased attention to the ethical and policy aspects of anatomical education is required. While most of the attention devoted to these questions thus far has been focused on procedures before and after dissection, from the perspective of medical students, there are important considerations during the process of dissection itself. This proposal suggests that basic ethical guidelines should be established and monitored by an independent committee tasked with reviewing them. The guidelines proposed include:1. A clear set of expectations regarding what is required of students throughout the course in the realms of education, ethics, and behavior.2. The establishment of an oversight group composed of students, faculty, community members, and staff who will regularly review the anatomical education program and update these ethical guidelines as appropriate. This committee will also ensure that the students and instructors alike have ready access to all available information regarding their cadavers, should the donors wish to make this information available.3. The use of materials that encourage students to view their donors with respect and ensure proper treatment of the donor.4. The establishment of minimal ethical standards regarding respectful behavior toward the donor bodies.While many of these items are already present in certain anatomy departments, the establishment of clear guidelines will permit students the freedom to fully participate in their education knowing that they have met the highest ethical standards as they prepare for a career as a humanistic physician.