The uniform anatomical gift act: What every clinical anatomist should know

Abstract Although many are aware of the existence of a document called the Uniform Anatomical Gift Act (UAGA), few are aware that there are actually two such Acts (1968 and 1987), and even fewer have read the Acts themselves. Consequently, there are many different and frequently false impressions about their purpose and content. This paper is an attempt to acquaint readers with the two UAGAs. The historical background leading to the unprecedented rapid, uniform and unanimous adoption of the 1968 Act is presented. The content, rationale, and significance of that Act are outlined. The perceived shortcomings of the first Act resulting in the much less successful and less widely‐adopted 1987 Act is explained and the major changes incorporated in the second Act are outlined. Specific features of the Acts of concern to anatomists involved in willed‐body programs, and clinicians who may become involved in body/body part donation or utilization are addressed. Finally, the relationship of the UAGA to other lines of regulation and the need to be aware of them is indicated. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.