Explore the critical requirements, core duties, primary responsibilities, and key skills that should be included in a comprehensive Medical Examiner job description.
What does a Medical Examiner do?
The job of a medical examiner, also known as a forensic pathologist, is to determine the cause of death of a person. This includes deaths that are natural, accidental, or intentional. They are trained doctors who use their medical skills to examine deceased individuals and provide evidence in legal cases.
Job Description
We are seeking an experienced medical examiner to perform postmortem examinations on deceased individuals. Your role will be to determine the cause, manner, and circumstances surrounding their death.
In order to be successful in this position, you must have a calm demeanor and be trained in forensic analysis, criminal procedure, and evidence collection. You will often work with law enforcement, so it is important to be able to work collaboratively.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
- Conducting autopsies to determine the cause of death
- Examining specimens, tissues, organs, fluids, and blood for any abnormalities that may have caused the death
- Collaborating with law enforcement in investigating sudden or unnatural deaths
- Gathering information and data at the scene of a death
- Reviewing police reports and medical records for relevant information
- Preparing reports of findings for law enforcement
- Providing expert testimony in court when needed
- Issuing death certificates and determining when a body can be released
- Continuously staying updated on developments in forensic pathology and attending education seminars and courses
Requirements and Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in biology, physical sciences, or a related field
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree
- 4-7 years of internship and residency training in forensic and anatomical pathology
- Successful completion of the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE)
- Certification by The American Board of Pathology in forensic and anatomical pathology
- Active and valid medical license in the state where you will be working
- Experience using laboratory testing equipment
- Familiarity with laws and regulations related to forensic services
- Strong analytical and research skills
- Excellent oral and written communication abilities
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