UNT Health Science Center Halts Use of Unclaimed Bodies After NBC Investigation

The program, which used bodies without consent for medical research, faces scrutiny and reforms following public outcry.

Tarrant County commissioners voted to end their contract with the University of North Texas Health Science Center (UNTHSC) after revelations of unethical practices.
An NBC News investigation uncovered that over 830 unclaimed bodies were used without consent for research and sold to companies across the U.S.
The Health Science Center has fired program leaders, suspended the Willed Body Program, and initiated an internal and external review.
Families of deceased individuals were often not contacted before their relatives' bodies were used, leading to significant distress and anger.
The center plans to refocus its body donation program on obtaining specimens only from consenting donors to ensure ethical standards.