It is not so well understood, however, that the progress and direction of medicine has resulted in a more widespread need for human bodies for dissection and study. The Anatomical Gift Association is the legal representative of all medical institutions within the State of Illinois. Since all states have now legalized the bequeathing of one's body for medical study, an increasing number of persons are making this contribution to science. The forms for authorizing this gift are available upon request. The family or estate is expected to to assume all obligations and expenses of forwarding the unembalmed remains to the Anatomical Gift Association in Chicago.
All institutions use cremation for final disposition.