Autopsy and the Genetics Initiative

Autopsy and NCRAD Since its inception, it has been the policy of NCRAD to cover all ‘reasonable’ costs associated with the brain removal and autopsy of a study subject

Autopsy and NCRAD Reasonable costs can include: –Transportation of the body –Removal of the brain tissue –Shipment of the brain to NCRAD or other location for examination –Costs of neuropathology

Autopsy and NCRAD The key to a successful autopsy is planning –Families are typically approached to consider brain donation at several times, including: – during their active participation in the study –during their annual follow-up Once interested, an autopsy plan is put into place

Elements of an Autopsy Plan Health status of the subject Who will assist in making plan Funeral home arrangements Site for brain removal Means to transport body, if necessary Location for neuropathology

Elements of the Autopsy Plan Finalize each element Put all plans into writing Send a copy of the autopsy plan with all details to all relevant individuals –Family members- Nursing home –Funeral home- Brain removal site –Neuropathology site Reconfirm all elements of the plan on a yearly basis

Autopsy Brochure New brochure is being developed which will provide information to families about autopsy planning –Introduces the importance of autopsy –Answers commonly asked questions and concerns –Can be included with a cover letter as part of a mass mailing for annual update

Annual Follow-Up and the Genetics Initiative

NCRAD Annual Follow-Up NCRAD uses various tools to keep families interested in the project and thereby provide updated information annually –Simple annual update form –Cover letter describing study accomplishments –Regular NCRAD Newsletters