Anatomy sector stakeholder forum

Anatomy sector stakeholder forum: sharing insights and best practice

We recently hosted an Anatomy sector forum, bringing together Designated Individuals and sector representatives, including some new members. Our forums provide valuable opportunities to discuss regulatory matters and share best practices; this one also proved to be interesting, with illuminating discussions and reflections.

Inspection and compliance update from HTA

As in previous forums, we spoke to data and findings from recent inspections, which confirmed the Anatomy sector continues to maintain high compliance with our standards. Of the 15 completed anatomy inspections and licence application assessments in the past year, 60% had no shortfalls. Where shortfalls were identified, these were minor and generally found in low numbers.

HTA has significantly increased its inspection activities in the Anatomy sector, with 12 anatomy sector inspections planned again for this business year. There was really positive feedback on our approach to inspections in the sector, especially the single-person, hybrid inspection model we have been using routinely, which combines virtual and on-site components.

Supporting sector compliance

We discussed ways to help establishments monitor and maintain high standards, including wider use of existing pre-inspection resources. It was encouraging to find, again, that Anatomy colleagues were keen to be high-performing and 'inspection-ready'.

We also reflected on the updated Anatomy sector Licensing Standards and Guidance, published in January 2023 and now well-embedded. The revised guidance was informed by an internal review and engagement with external stakeholders. In making updates, we also considered the revisions that we made to the guidance that supports our Post Mortem sector licensing standards in 2022. The revised guidance includes enhanced information on several areas, including a focus on security, access and maintaining the dignity of the deceased. 

Looking ahead

We appreciate that changes in the higher education sector, and to health-related training, will impact the sector in different ways. We are committed to working with Anatomy establishments to maintain high standards and adapt to evolving challenges.

The HTA considers the Anatomy sector to be low risk - there is a long history of regulation and a well-established culture of dignity and respect for the deceased. There are also well-established consent mechanisms for body donation. Inspection and compliance update data have confirmed that our anatomy establishments are highly compliant with our regulation and we have never found any critical shortfalls in the Anatomy sector. We also recognise the importance of maintaining high standards due to the nature of activities taking place in the sector. The forums continue to provide a valuable platform for open dialogue between the HTA and sector representatives.