UPR/MSC CURRENT PROJECTS

AND ACTIVITIES

Selected Campus Projects Relevant to Women's Health

Board for Anatomical Donations

The Board for Anatomical Donations of Puerto Rico was created by Law 296 on December 25, 2002, as amended, and is assigned to the Medical Sciences Campus of the University of Puerto Rico. Its primary function is to regulate the donation of human organs and tissues used for transplants and rehabilitation, as well as bodies that are used for medical research. These activities contribute to the enrichment of science, by meeting the needs created by constant changes in medical advancement. Law 153 of August 20, 1996 mandates the Department of Transportation and Public Works, in conjunction with the Board of Anatomical Donations, to implement programs that will stimulate and allow persons over 18 years of age to make anatomical donations.

Private medical schools that are covered by the Anatomical Donations Law collaborate with the Board providing information on organ donations. These schools also offer community orientation programs throughout the island. Information is offered to the public, through the use of island-wide radio communications regarding transplants and the donation of bodies and organs to be used for transplants. Orientation is offered by phone or personally to those persons who are interested in donating their bodies. Nursing homes as well as hospitals are visited to offer proper orientation to their personnel in relation to the process involved in anatomical donations.

At present, the Board consists of professionals from the medical, judicial, and private sectors. Their services are voluntary and free of charge.

Contact information:

http://www.rcm.upr.edu/2A2-BOARDFORANATOMICALDONATIONS.html