The Human Tissue Authority (HTA) has launched a consultation on a revised code of practice for post-mortem examinations. The consultation also covers seven revised codes including those on consent and the disposal of human tissue. Under the Human Tissue Act 2004, in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, post-mortem examinations must be carried out on premises licensed by the HTA.
Comments are encouraged on any part of the code, but the HTA will ask specific questions. Are the codes clear and comprehensible? We have intended to set out a broad framework of guidance rather than detailed prescription: have we succeeded? Have we distinguished clearly between what must be done and what is good practice? Are the best-practice examples helpful in illustrating key points in the guidance?
The codes and full details of the consultation are available on the HTA website, and the consultation period ends on 14 November.
www.hta.gov.uk