Medical Examiner By: Ben Lehmann

WHAT DO THEY DO?  The Medical Examiner is a forensically trained physician, that investigates violent, suspicious or unnatural deaths.  The Medical Examiner has the duty to determine the cause and manner of the death.

Why do we need Medical Examiners?  In the case of a unexpected or violent (non-natural) death the attending physician cannot legally sign a death certificate without knowing the cause of death.  Families of the deceased person rely on the Medical Examiner's to find out the cause.

Difference between a coroner and a ME  A coroner is an elected or appointed government official who may not have a medical degree.  A medical examiner on the other hand is a licensed physician who is appointed by the governor to investigate violent, suspicious or unnatural deaths.

Skills and Training needed..  The Medical Examiner has to be a licensed physician with Pathologic Forensic Training.  The Medical Examiner must be certified in Forensic Medicine, and experienced in the Forensic Sciences.

Bibliography  alExaminer.htm alExaminer.htm alExaminer.htm  s/medExaminer.asp s/medExaminer.asp s/medExaminer.asp  q.htm q.htm q.htm 