The Truth About Morgue Odors: What You Need to Know
Do refrigerated bodies at hospital morgues smell bad? Generally, properly refrigerated bodies in hospital morgues have minimal odor because the cold temperatures (2-4°C or 36-39°F) significantly slow decomposition. However, some mild odor may still be present depending on:
- Storage duration - Bodies refrigerated longer than one week may develop odors
- Body condition - Bodies received after significant decomposition has started will continue to emit odors
- Refrigeration quality - Consistent temperature control is critical
- Ventilation systems - Proper air handling reduces perceptible odors
When morgue refrigeration functions correctly, staff and visitors typically experience minimal unpleasant smells in the immediate environment.
The question of odor in hospital morgues touches on something many wonder about but few discuss openly. Hospital morgues serve a critical purpose in our healthcare system, providing a dignified temporary resting place for the deceased while families make arrangements and medical examinations are completed.
Modern morgue facilities use specialized refrigeration units that maintain temperatures between 2°C and 4°C (36°F to 39°F). This cold environment significantly slows - but doesn't completely stop - the natural decomposition process that begins immediately after death.
While refrigeration dramatically reduces odors, morgue professionals understand that proper temperature control is just one aspect of maintaining a respectful environment. Ventilation systems, regular cleaning protocols, and proper body preparation all work together to minimize any unpleasant smells.
As one mortuary technician noted in our research, "Taking one or two deep, full breaths helps desensitize the wearer to the odor, as the human nose adapts quickly to strong smells." This practical approach highlights how professionals in the field have developed methods to manage the sensory aspects of their important work.
For funeral directors and morgue managers, understanding the realities of odor management isn't just about comfort—it's about maintaining dignity for the deceased and providing a professional environment for both staff and visiting family members.
What Causes Odor in Decomposing Bodies?
When we talk about morgue refrigeration, it helps to understand what we're actually trying to slow down. The human body begins its natural return to nature immediately after death, even though we might not see or smell evidence of this process right away.
The Biological Process of Decomposition
Death sets in motion a fascinating but admittedly unpleasant series of biological changes. When the heart stops beating, cells throughout the body suddenly find themselves without oxygen—their essential fuel. Like lights going out in a power outage, these cells begin to die.
As cells break down, they release enzymes that essentially digest the body from the inside out. Scientists call this process autolysis, and it's just the beginning. At the same time, the trillions of bacteria that normally live peacefully in our intestines suddenly find themselves without the body's immune system keeping them in check. These microorganisms begin multiplying rapidly and spreading throughout the body's tissues—a process called putrefaction.
"The human body contains more than 700 different types of bacteria," explained one morgue technician with over 20 years of experience. "After death, these bacteria—particularly those in the intestinal tract—begin to break down tissues, producing gases and compounds that create distinctive odors."
These natural processes result in several odor-causing substances:
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) represent the primary source of decomposition odor. These include chemicals with intimidating names like cadaverine and putrescine, along with various sulfur compounds. Despite their scientific names, you'd recognize their smell immediately—it's nature's way of signaling that decomposition is underway.
Bacterial activity accelerates dramatically after death. Without the body's natural defenses, bacteria multiply exponentially, breaking down proteins and creating gases like hydrogen sulfide (which smells like rotten eggs), methane, and carbon dioxide. These gases build up in tissues and body cavities, causing physical changes and releasing more odorous compounds into the air.
Temperature plays a crucial role in this entire process. At typical room temperature (around 70°F/21°C), visible and odorous decomposition becomes apparent within 24-48 hours. In warmer conditions, these changes happen even faster. This is precisely why refrigeration is so vital in morgue settings—the cold significantly slows these biological processes, preserving dignity and creating a more manageable environment for morgue staff and visiting family members.
Understanding these natural processes helps explain why do refrigerated bodies at hospital morgues smell bad is such a common question, and why proper refrigeration technology represents such an essential investment for hospitals, medical examiners' offices, and funeral homes.
Do Refrigerated Bodies at Hospital Morgues Smell Bad?
When people think about morgues, concerns about odors often come to mind. The truth is, properly refrigerated bodies in hospital morgues typically do not emit strong odors that would be noticeable to visitors or staff working in adjacent areas. But this doesn't mean there's absolutely no smell at all.
If you were to walk into a well-maintained morgue refrigeration unit, you'd likely notice a clinical smell—antiseptic and cold—rather than anything particularly unpleasant. One morgue technician I spoke with described it perfectly: "When you walk into a properly maintained morgue cooler, the predominant smell is more like a clean, cold storage area—similar to a walk-in refrigerator but with subtle undertones that remind you it's a clinical setting."
The Science Behind Refrigeration and Odor Control
Modern morgue refrigeration works by lowering the body temperature to between 2°C and 4°C (36°F to 39°F). This cooling process accomplishes several important things: it slows bacterial metabolism, which reduces their ability to multiply and produce odor-causing compounds; it decreases the rate of enzymatic reactions breaking down tissues; and it reduces the volatility of odorous compounds, meaning fewer molecules become airborne where our noses can detect them.
Research on decomposition in refrigerated conditions shows that proper cooling can extend the preservation of a body for approximately 1-2 weeks before noticeable decomposition begins. This provides valuable time for families to make arrangements and for medical examiners to complete their necessary work.
However, refrigeration does have its limitations. It slows decomposition but doesn't stop it completely. Bodies that have already begun decomposing before refrigeration will continue to emit odors, though at a reduced rate. And extended storage beyond 1-2 weeks may result in gradual odor development despite the best refrigeration.
Factors Affecting Odor in Morgues
Several key factors influence the presence and intensity of odors in hospital morgues, and understanding these helps explain why experiences can vary.
1. Body Condition Prior to Refrigeration
The condition of the body when it arrives at the morgue significantly impacts odor management. Bodies that reach the morgue quickly after death are much easier to preserve with minimal odor. Environmental factors matter too—bodies exposed to heat or humidity before refrigeration may have accelerated decomposition that's harder to manage.
The cause of death can also play a role, as certain medical conditions, infections, or traumatic injuries affect decomposition rates and associated odors. Even body size matters—larger bodies may cool more slowly, potentially allowing decomposition to progress further before refrigeration takes full effect.
2. Storage Duration
As one morgue supervisor candidly shared with me: "Refrigeration buys us time, but it's not indefinite. We generally aim to have bodies processed within a week because even with proper cooling, natural decomposition will eventually progress."
The International Health Facility Guidelines recommend that refrigerated storage should generally not exceed 4-6 weeks for bodies in cold rooms under optimal conditions, and just 1 week for standard refrigeration before alternative preservation methods should be considered.
3. Temperature Control Quality
The effectiveness of refrigeration depends heavily on maintaining consistent temperatures. Temperature fluctuations due to equipment issues or frequent door openings can accelerate decomposition. That's why morgues must ensure their refrigeration systems can rapidly cool new arrivals and maintain those temperatures consistently.
A mortuary refrigeration specialist I interviewed emphasized this point: "Temperature consistency is critical. Even brief periods of higher temperatures can accelerate decomposition significantly, which is why quality equipment with temperature monitoring and backup systems is essential."
How Refrigeration Affects Decomposition and Odor
Refrigeration works primarily by slowing bacterial activity—the main driver of decomposition and associated odors. At temperatures between 2°C and 4°C, bacterial metabolism slows dramatically, reducing the production of odor-causing volatile organic compounds.
However, as a forensic pathologist explained: "Freezing significantly slows down decomposition but does not completely halt it. Some biological processes continue slowly even at low temperatures." This scientific reality is backed by research published in scientific journals on decomposition in refrigerated conditions.
Morgue facilities must balance several practical considerations. Positive temperature refrigeration (2°C to 4°C) slows decomposition while keeping tissues in a condition suitable for examination and funeral preparation. Negative temperature freezing (-10°C to -50°C) is sometimes used in forensic settings for long-term preservation but can damage tissues in ways that make examination and preparation more difficult.
Even in ideal conditions, refrigeration only delays the inevitable biological processes. After approximately one week of refrigeration, despite optimal conditions, some signs of decomposition will begin to appear, and with them, the potential for odors to develop.
Understanding these realities helps explain why high-quality morgue refrigeration systems, like those provided by American Mortuary Coolers, are essential investments for hospitals and funeral homes committed to maintaining dignity for the deceased and a professional environment for staff and visiting family members.
Odor Management Practices in Hospital Morgues
When it comes to managing odors in hospital morgues, today's facilities don't rely on refrigeration alone. They employ a comprehensive approach that honors the deceased while creating a comfortable environment for both staff and visitors.
Ventilation Systems: The First Line of Defense
Walk into a well-designed morgue, and you'll notice the air feels different. That's no accident. Proper air handling plays a crucial role in odor control, and it's something we take seriously in the industry.
Most hospital morgues use what's called negative pressure ventilation. This clever system ensures air flows into the morgue rather than out, preventing any odors from drifting into other hospital areas. The air inside completely refreshes about 5-6 times every hour, which is substantially more frequent than in regular rooms.
Behind the scenes, specialized filtration systems work continuously. HEPA filters capture tiny particles, while activated carbon filters absorb odorous compounds. Many facilities also maintain completely separate HVAC systems for their morgues to prevent any possibility of cross-contamination with patient areas.
"Morgue ventilation systems are designed with both function and dignity in mind," a hospital facilities engineer shared with me recently. "We maintain negative pressure and high air turnover rates, which helps control any potential odors while ensuring the environment remains respectful."
Hygiene Protocols and Cleaning Regimens
Cleanliness in a morgue isn't just about appearances – it's fundamental to both odor management and showing respect for the deceased. Hospital-grade disinfectants do double duty by eliminating bacteria and neutralizing odors on all surfaces.
The floors in morgue facilities feature specialized drainage systems designed to prevent any fluid accumulation. When bodies arrive, staff perform basic cleaning and preparation, which helps minimize potential odor sources from the start.
One morgue technician put it perfectly: "Cleanliness isn't just about appearance. It's about respect for the deceased and their families, and it's critical for creating a workspace where our staff can perform their duties effectively."
Refrigeration Systems and Their Impact on Odor
At American Mortuary Coolers, we've seen how refrigeration technology serves as the foundation of effective morgue operations. Modern systems generally fall into two main categories:
Positive Temperature Refrigeration (2°C to 4°C) keeps bodies above freezing but cold enough to significantly slow decomposition. These systems include walk-in coolers where staff can enter and work, individual refrigerated cabinets for separate storage, and sophisticated temperature monitoring with digital displays and alarms to ensure consistent cooling.
Negative Temperature Refrigeration (-10°C to -50°C) is primarily used in forensic settings or when long-term storage is necessary. These freezer units maintain sub-zero temperatures to further slow decomposition and are specially designed for forensic preservation when legal investigations require extended storage.
"Modern refrigeration units are designed with precision temperature control and backup systems," explains a refrigeration engineer who specializes in mortuary systems. "The goal is to maintain the narrow temperature window that best preserves the body while minimizing energy consumption."
Today's refrigeration systems include thoughtful features specifically for odor control, like sealed compartments with gaskets that prevent odor escape, condensation management systems that prevent moisture buildup, and easy-to-clean stainless steel interiors that resist bacterial growth and simplify sanitization.
Staff Experiences Working Around Refrigerated Bodies
The people who work in morgues develop unique professional approaches to their environment. Their experiences offer a window into the realities of daily operations.
"When you first enter this field, the sensory aspects can be challenging," one mortuary technician shared with me. "But your body adapts quickly. Most days, in a properly maintained facility, there's minimal odor. It's only in special circumstances—like when we receive a body that was unfound for days—that odor management becomes a significant concern."
Staff typically use several practical strategies to cope with potential odors. Many practice specific breathing techniques – taking deep breaths helps desensitize the nose. They use proper personal protective equipment, sometimes with menthol or scented inserts when dealing with stronger odors. Most develop a kind of professional detachment that allows them to focus on the technical aspects of their important work.
And yes, appropriate humor among colleagues often serves as a coping mechanism, as it does in many high-stress professions. This human element was candidly expressed by one professional who noted: "Dead people are gross. They look gross, smell bad, feel weird. I have handled thousands of dead bodies, and never once have I thought, 'Oh, I should dig through their mouth and see if there are any gold teeth.' There are probably some sickos that do that (because there are sickos in all aspects of life), but I've never even considered doing that."
This straightforward perspective highlights the matter-of-fact approach most morgue workers develop – acknowledging the realities of their work while maintaining genuine respect for the deceased and their families.
Health and Safety Regulations Regarding Odor Control
Behind every well-run hospital morgue is a robust framework of health and safety regulations that go far beyond simple odor control. These standards ensure morgues maintain appropriate conditions that protect staff health while preserving the dignity of those who have passed.
Regulatory Standards for Morgue Operations
When you walk into a properly managed morgue facility, what you're seeing is the result of careful adherence to comprehensive guidelines that vary somewhat by location but share common principles.
"These standards aren't just bureaucratic requirements—they're built on decades of best practices that protect both the dignity of the deceased and the health of morgue workers," explains a regulatory compliance officer we interviewed.
Most hospital morgues must follow strict temperature guidelines, maintaining bodies between 2°C to 4°C (36°F to 39°F). This range isn't arbitrary—it represents the sweet spot for preservation without causing freezing damage to tissues.
Aspect | Typical Requirement | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Temperature | 2°C to 4°C (36°F to 39°F) | Optimal preservation without freezing damage |
Air Changes | 5-6 per hour | Removes airborne particles and odors |
Storage Duration | Maximum 1 week (standard refrigeration) | Prevents advanced decomposition |
Backup Systems | Required | Ensures continuous preservation during power outages |
Staff Training | Mandatory | Ensures proper handling procedures |
In the United States, morgue operations must comply with a web of overlapping requirements from OSHA workplace safety regulations to CDC infection control guidelines. Each state's health department typically adds another layer of requirements, and in some jurisdictions, facilities must also meet Human Tissue Authority (HTA) standards.
These regulations work together to ensure that do refrigerated bodies at hospital morgues smell bad isn't a question visitors or staff need to worry about under normal circumstances.
Maintenance Practices for Odor Prevention
The difference between a morgue with minimal odor and one with noticeable smells often comes down to maintenance. Regular upkeep of refrigeration systems isn't just about equipment longevity—it's essential for effective odor control.
One of our maintenance technicians at American Mortuary Coolers puts it simply: "We recommend quarterly preventative maintenance for all mortuary refrigeration systems. This not only extends equipment life but ensures optimal performance for odor control and body preservation."
This preventative approach includes checking seals and gaskets to prevent air leakage that could allow odors to escape. Regular cleaning of evaporator coils ensures efficient cooling and prevents frost buildup that could compromise temperature consistency.
Behind the scenes, smart morgue managers implement temperature monitoring and logging protocols that can identify potential issues before they affect preservation. This proactive stance means problems get addressed before they can lead to odor concerns.
Proper Storage Temperatures and Their Critical Role
If there's one factor that stands above all others in preventing decomposition odors, it's temperature control. The science is clear and compelling—at temperatures between 2°C to 4°C (36°F to 39°F), bacterial activity drops by approximately 90% compared to room temperature.
"Temperature consistency is as important as the temperature itself," a refrigeration specialist explained to us. "Systems that maintain steady temperatures with minimal fluctuation provide the best preservation outcomes and odor control."
This is why at American Mortuary Coolers, we design our systems with precision in mind. Our digital temperature controls maintain conditions within ±0.5°C precision—a narrow window that makes a significant difference in preservation quality. We include continuous monitoring capabilities and alarm systems that alert staff to any temperature variations, plus backup power connections for emergency situations.
The relationship between temperature and decomposition is remarkably sensitive. For each 1°C increase above the ideal range, decomposition rates can increase by 10-15%. This is why do refrigerated bodies at hospital morgues smell bad is a question with a nuanced answer—proper refrigeration dramatically reduces odors, but temperature consistency is absolutely crucial.
When regulations, maintenance practices, and proper temperature controls work together, hospital morgues can maintain a respectful environment that honors the deceased while creating a workable space for the professionals who serve there.
Technological Advancements in Morgue Refrigeration
The world of mortuary refrigeration has come a long way in recent years. What was once basic cooling technology has evolved into sophisticated systems that not only preserve remains with greater precision but also tackle one of the industry's biggest challenges: odor management.
Modern Refrigeration Systems
Walking into a morgue today, you might be surprised by how advanced the equipment has become. Gone are the days of simple coolers with basic temperature controls. Today's systems are marvels of engineering that combine precision, efficiency, and reliability.
"The difference between older units and what we install today is like comparing a flip phone to a smartphone," explains one of our engineers at American Mortuary Coolers. "Modern systems don't just cool—they actively monitor, adjust, and communicate."
These newer systems feature microprocessor-controlled cooling that maintains temperatures within a fraction of a degree—crucial for consistent preservation. They're also much smarter about how they use energy, with energy-efficient compressors that reduce operational costs while maintaining optimal conditions.
Many of our clients particularly appreciate the remote monitoring capabilities that allow staff to check on temperatures from their phones or computers, providing peace of mind during off-hours. If something does start to go wrong, self-diagnostic systems can alert maintenance personnel before small issues become big problems.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we've incorporated these technologies while staying true to what matters most in mortuary environments: reliability and durability. Our units feature heavy-duty stainless steel construction that stands up to rigorous daily cleaning. We've engineered specialized airflow patterns that ensure even cooling throughout the storage area, eliminating warm spots that could accelerate decomposition and create odor issues.
For facilities concerned about power outages or equipment failure, our backup refrigeration systems automatically engage if primary systems falter—because we understand that in this industry, there are no second chances when it comes to preservation.
Odor Reduction Technologies
When people ask, "Do refrigerated bodies at hospital morgues smell bad?", the answer increasingly depends on what technologies the facility has implemented beyond basic refrigeration.
Today's most advanced morgues combine cooling with specialized odor management systems. Activated carbon filtration has become a game-changer, as these filters can trap and neutralize the volatile organic compounds responsible for decomposition odors before they spread through the facility.
Some morgues have begun installing UV-C light systems within their ventilation ducts. These systems kill airborne bacteria that contribute to decomposition odors, creating a cleaner overall environment. During unoccupied periods, some facilities use ozone generators that release ozone gas to neutralize lingering odorous compounds—though these must be used carefully and only when staff aren't present.
Even the physical surfaces in modern morgues have evolved, with specialized antimicrobial coatings that resist bacterial growth on counters, floors, and storage units. These coatings create an inhospitable environment for the microorganisms that accelerate decomposition and generate odors.
A morgue director who recently upgraded their facility shared with us: "The staff noticed the difference immediately. Not only does our new system maintain more consistent temperatures, but the integrated filtration has virtually eliminated ambient odors in our preparation areas. It's made a world of difference for our daily work environment."
Future Developments on the Horizon
The future of mortuary refrigeration looks promising, with several innovations that could further transform how we preserve and care for the deceased.
Some of the most exciting developments include AI-driven cooling systems that will adjust temperatures based on individual factors like body mass, time since death, and environmental conditions. This personalized approach could optimize preservation while minimizing energy use.
Researchers are also working on advanced decomposition sensors that can detect the early chemical markers of decomposition before they become noticeable to human senses. These early warning systems would allow staff to take proactive measures before odor issues develop.
With growing environmental consciousness, sustainable cooling technologies are also gaining traction. These systems maintain performance while reducing carbon footprints—something increasingly important to many funeral homes and hospitals.
"The future of mortuary refrigeration isn't just about keeping bodies cold," explains our lead engineer at American Mortuary Coolers. "It's about creating intelligent systems that adapt to specific preservation needs while maximizing energy efficiency. We're working toward solutions that respect both the deceased and our planet."
These technological advancements reflect our industry's ongoing commitment to dignity and respect in end-of-life care. While the subject of morgue odors may seem uncomfortable to some, the reality is that managing these aspects of death with sophisticated technology allows for more compassionate and respectful treatment of the deceased and provides a better working environment for the dedicated professionals in this field.
For more information about effective body cooling solutions, you can explore our guide to effective body cooling solutions, which covers the latest technologies in greater detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do morgues smell bad even with refrigeration?
When people think about morgues, they often imagine unpleasant odors. The reality is much less dramatic. A properly maintained hospital morgue with functioning refrigeration systems typically has minimal odor.
Most visitors are surprised to find that morgues smell more clinical than anything else—similar to other hospital environments but with a distinct coldness in the air. It's nothing like what crime shows on television might lead you to believe.
That said, several factors can affect how a morgue smells:
Good maintenance is crucial. Facilities that skimp on cleaning or equipment upkeep may develop odors despite refrigeration. Bodies that began decomposing before reaching the morgue might retain some odor even after cooling. When bodies stay in refrigeration beyond the recommended 1-2 weeks, odors may gradually develop. And without proper ventilation, even minor odors can become concentrated.
As one morgue technician told us during our research: "In a well-run facility with proper refrigeration and ventilation, visitors are often surprised by how neutral the environment smells. Most people come in expecting the worst and leave wondering what they were worried about."
How do morgue staff cope with potential odors from refrigerated bodies?
Morgue professionals are still human, and they develop practical strategies for managing the sensory aspects of their work. Many report that simple desensitization happens naturally—the human nose adapts to persistent odors, making them less noticeable over time.
When stronger odors are present, protective equipment comes into play. Masks, sometimes with mentholated inserts, provide a barrier between staff and potential smells. Many professionals also use specific breathing techniques; taking deep breaths when first entering the morgue helps the nose adjust quickly rather than taking shallow breaths that can actually make odor perception worse.
Regular breaks outside in fresh air help reset olfactory sensitivity, and most importantly, experienced staff develop a professional mindset that allows them to focus on the technical aspects of their work.
A seasoned pathologist shared with us: "You develop a clinical detachment—not from the humanity of the person who has died, but from the physical realities of death. It's similar to how surgeons learn to work with blood and tissue while maintaining focus on helping their patients."
This balance of practical techniques and professional perspective allows morgue staff to perform their important work with dignity and respect.
Are there technologies to eliminate odor completely in morgues?
While completely eliminating all odors is challenging, modern technologies can reduce them to levels that are virtually imperceptible under normal circumstances. Today's morgues have access to sophisticated solutions that go beyond basic refrigeration.
Advanced filtration systems combining HEPA filters with activated carbon can capture most airborne particles and odorous compounds. Some facilities use air purification technologies like UV-C light, ionization, and controlled ozone treatments to neutralize odor-causing molecules at the chemical level.
Modern refrigeration cabinets from companies like American Mortuary Coolers feature high-quality gaskets and seals that minimize odor escape. In specific situations, chemical neutralizers might be used sparingly to address particular odor issues.
However, most professionals we spoke with emphasized that fancy technology isn't a substitute for fundamentals. As one morgue director put it: "Technology helps, but there's no substitute for the basics. Maintaining proper temperatures, ensuring good airflow, and following rigorous cleaning protocols will address 95% of potential odor issues."
This practical wisdom reflects why do refrigerated bodies at hospital morgues smell bad is a question with a nuanced answer—with proper equipment and protocols, the answer is generally no, but it requires diligence and proper equipment to maintain a respectful environment.
Conclusion: Maintaining Dignity Through Proper Preservation
The question "do refrigerated bodies at hospital morgues smell bad?" touches on something deeply human—our concern for dignity in death and our natural curiosity about what happens behind the doors of facilities most of us rarely see. Throughout this article, we've finded that the reality is far more reassuring than what popular media might suggest.
In well-maintained facilities with quality refrigeration systems, odor is minimal and carefully managed. The cold, clinical environment serves an essential purpose: preserving the dignity of those who have passed while creating a respectful space for both staff and visiting families.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we take pride in being part of this important work. Every mortuary cooler we craft in our Tennessee facility represents our commitment to the funeral professionals who perform such essential services for communities nationwide. We understand that reliable refrigeration isn't just about temperature control—it's about creating environments where dignity and respect are paramount.
The morgues of today bear little resemblance to the grim, forbidding spaces often portrayed in television and movies. Modern facilities combine advanced technology with thoughtful design to create environments that honor the deceased while supporting the needs of medical professionals and grieving families. Proper ventilation, consistent temperature control, and rigorous maintenance protocols work together to ensure that these spaces remain comfortable and appropriate for their solemn purpose.
As refrigeration technology continues to advance, we remain committed to incorporating these innovations into our custom solutions. Whether it's more energy-efficient compressors, improved temperature monitoring systems, or improved filtration options, we're constantly evolving to help our customers provide the best possible care.
The truth about morgue odors ultimately reflects a broader reality about the funeral industry as a whole—this is a field defined by professionalism, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to serving families during their most difficult moments. The careful management of sensory aspects is just one way that funeral professionals demonstrate their respect for both the living and the deceased.
For those seeking more information about our custom mortuary refrigeration solutions, please visit our website or reach out to one of our regional offices in Johnson City, Atlanta, Chicago, Columbia, Dallas, Los Angeles, New York, or Pittsburgh. We're here to help you create a facility that upholds the highest standards of care for the communities you serve—because everyone deserves dignity, in life and in death.