Anatomy for Everyone: an inclusive, dissection-based educational model integrating hands-on anatomy and digital learning.

Introduction and aims Anatomia per Tutti (Italian for Anatomy for Everyone) is an educational initiative founded on the principle that anatomical knowledge should be accessible, continuous, and clinically relevant throughout medical training. Although anatomy is commonly positioned early in medical curricula, its relevance extends across all stages of education and clinical practice. From this perspective, Anatomy for Everyone was developed as an inclusive model to promote a trans-clinical understanding of human anatomy through direct cadaveric dissection combined with open-access digital dissemination. The aim of this study was to describe and qualitatively evaluate this educational model, focusing on its impact on medical students’ learning experiences and engagement with anatomy. Methods From 2020 onward, more than 2,600 undergraduate medical students from medical schools across Italy have actively participated in full-day hands-on cadaveric dissection courses focused on the trunk, limbs, and head. All activities were conducted at a dedicated teaching and research center and guided by faculty anatomists together with a structured group of trained dissection tutors (Italian Dissection Team). Qualitative data were collected through students’ reflective narratives, informal feedback, and longitudinal observation of learner engagement during and after the dissection experience. Data were analysed using an inductive thematic approach. Results Three main themes emerged: (1) embodied and integrative anatomical understanding, with students reporting enhanced spatial awareness and consolidation of theoretical knowledge; (2) professional identity formation and ethical sensitivity, fostered by direct contact with the human body; and (3) continuity and accessibility of learning, supported by extensive digital resources. Educational content disseminated through social media and video platforms reached a wide audience, including approximately 45,000 Instagram followers and 15,000 YouTube subscribers, reinforcing systematic and topographic anatomy beyond the laboratory. Conclusion Anatomy for Everyone represents a scalable educational model that integrates cadaveric dissection, peer-assisted teaching, and digital anatomy education. This approach supports deep learning, professional development, and sustained engagement with anatomy within contemporary medical curricula.