FAQ: Medical researchers & educators

What is a non-transplant tissue bank?

Non-Transplant Anatomical Donation Organizations, or NADOs, recover human tissue donations which are not intended for transplant into a living patient for a wide range of applications, including research, training, and education.

What is the process for becoming a client with Science Care?

When qualifying a potential medical researcher or educator to link with non-transplant anatomical donated specimens, we verify the requester/client is a valid entity with a medical or research need that aligns with the donation authorization signed by our donors or their loved ones at the time of donation.

In our due diligence process, we look at ethical regard, merit, adequacy of resources, proposed use of specimens, company website content, any type of licensure such as HTA, previous patents, previous 510K approvals, contact information, email address, facility location/security, specimens required, disposition details, articles of incorporation, curriculum vitae, etc. New clients can only be approved by designated members of the Executive Management team. Not all inquiries are approved, and we reserve the right to refuse quotes or communication to anyone at any time.

What is the lead time required?

Transcription: This depends on the specimen type and the specific criteria you require. Due to the specialized nature of anatomical specimen handling, Science Care appreciates as much lead time as possible, but our team takes great pride in being able to accommodate even last minute needs for our clients. Give us a call! No request is too small or large.

Does Science Care ship internationally?

Transcription: Science Care has shipped to over 50 countries. We work with our preferred freight forwarder to ensure we are compliant with all international requirements. We coordinate all paperwork requirements from Science Care and monitor the shipment until it arrives at its final destination.

What types of clients and organizations does Science Care support?

Transcription: Science Care’s clients include top pharmaceutical companies, medical device manufacturers, renowned educational institutions, and healthcare organizations large and small, focused on improving patient outcomes and advancing medicine.

How do we request tissue from Science Care?

Transcription: Science Care performs due diligence for each and every requester of human tissue. Simply complete a Client Agreement and a Request Form. Call any time and we can walk you through the process and answer any questions. Keep in mind, if you are a startup company, or other smaller entity, you may be asked to provide some additional information.

What tissue preservation methods are used?

Transcription: Fresh/frozen tissue is our most commonly requested specimen type. However, we are able to provide various other preservation alternatives based on your needs. We offer embalmed, formalin flushed, formalin fixed, red/blue injected, red arms, flash frozen, saline, saline flush, ethanol, Phosphate Buffer Solution and liquid nitrogen preservation.  We can also accommodate various other custom preservation requests, to include low post mortem dissection and preservation requirements.  Our team will work with you to fully understand your specific use and recommend the best preservation methods to meet your needs.

What specimen scanning options are available?

Transcription: Science Care provides a wide range of scanning specimens options. We frequently provide X-rays, DEXA scans, CT scans, and MRI scans. We also have an extensive library of previously performed specimen scans.

What custom services does Science Care offer?

Transcription: Our client needs guide us and we love the challenge! We collaborate with our clients on custom procedures to deliver a specific result. We provide specialized embalming, formalin fixation, red/blue silicone injection, various freezing options and other customized procurement services. Our team is here to work WITH you on your specialized procurement and preservation needs. We partner with you to ensure a successful outcome for your event, research or training.

How is tissue tested for the presence of diseases?

Transcription: Every Science Care specimen is screened by a CLIA certified lab for HIV 1 and 2, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C, but no other diseases, unless specifically requested. Test results are not an assurance that the disease is not present nor is it an assurance of safety. The tissue specimens are not tested for all possible pathogens. As with any medical setting, anyone handling human tissue should use universal precautions at all times, as mandated by the OSHA Blood Borne Pathogens Final Standard. If you have any questions about the safe handling of tissue, our Client Services team and our Medical Director are always here to help.