Medical Examiner

Forensic Science: The Medical Examiner

Introduction to Medical Examiner

The medical examiner is the central figure in the forensic investigation of crimes involving a victim. It is the responsibility of the medical examiner to visit the crime scene, conduct an autopsy (an examination of the body) in cases of death, examine the medical evidence and laboratory reports, study the victim’s medical history, and put all this information together in a report to the district attorney.

Medical examiners are usually physicians specializing in forensic pathology, the study of structural and functional changes in the body as a result of injury. Their training and qualifications most often include a medical degree and an apprenticeship in a medical examiner’s office. Depending on the requirements of the particular state, city, or county, the medical examiner may also be required to be certified as a forensic pathologist by the American Board of Pathology. At present, the United States has no national system of medical examiners and has no federal law requiring that coroners be licensed physicians.” (1)

Resources

Notes and References

• Information about Medical Examiner in the Encarta Online Encyclopedia

Guide to Medical Examiner