Experiences with learning about death and dying in the undergraduate anatomy curriculum

Discussions about death, dying, and dissection during the first-year curriculum were initiated at the University of Massachusetts Medical School to deal with personal questions and emotions evoked by cadaver dissection.

Abstract

Discussions about death, dying, and dissection during the first-year curriculum were initiated at the University of Massachusetts Medical School to deal with personal questions and emotions evoked by cadaver dissection. This report describes the evoluation of these discussions, their timing with respect to dissection, the present content of these sessions, and the importance of follow-up. Student response has been positive.