Are autopsies mandatory in PA?

When specific circumstances surround a person’s death in Pennsylvania, a coroner is required to order a forensic autopsy. When someone dies in Pennsylvania, a coroner can order an autopsy if: A person dies unexpectedly with no prior, recognizable disease, and a physician cannot pinpoint an exact cause of death.

What deaths do not require an autopsy?

An autopsy is not generally necessary when the death is known to be the result of known medical conditions/diseases (ie, natural causes), adequate medical history exists, and there are no signs of foul play.

What are two reasons an autopsy would be legally required?

Typically though, a medical examiner or coroner can require an autopsy in the following situations.

• 1) Suspicion of Foul Play.
• 2) Infectious or Contagious Disease.
• 3) Infant Death.
• 4) Inmate Death.
• 5) Family Request.

Who pays for an autopsy in PA?

Who Pays For An Autopsy In Pennsylvania? The organization or person who orders the autopsy will pay for the procedure in Pennsylvania. For example, if the county coroner orders an autopsy, the local government will cover the cost.

How long does an autopsy take in PA?

How long does it take for an autopsy report to be completed? Typically, it takes 8-12 weeks for the complete report to be finalized. 3.

Can you refuse an autopsy?

Yes, an autopsy can be ordered by authorities without relatives’ consent in several situations. If an autopsy is not required by law or ordered by authorities, the deceased person’s next of kin must give permission for an autopsy to be performed.

How long does it take to get autopsy results in Pennsylvania?

Where is the body stored before an autopsy?

The body is received at a medical examiner’s office or hospital in a body bag or evidence sheet. If the autopsy is not performed immediately, the body will be refrigerated in the morgue until the examination. A brand new body bag is used for each body.

Who pays for an autopsy in Pennsylvania?

Is there a law in PA regarding an autopsy being ordered?

Is there a law in Pennsylvania regarding an autopsy being According to PA law, there is no Mandatory requirement I can find. This basically says that if the coroner can not determine the cause of death, they may order an autopsy, and an inquiry, and the cost of the inquiry will be covered by the county,…

Do you have to take a coroner exam in PA?

No person having served as coroner in Pennsylvania prior to the effective date of this act shall be required to attend instructions or pass this examination if reelected or appointed subsequent to the effective date of this act.

How do I request an autopsy for a deceased person?

Persons authorized to perform autopsy; authorization for postmortem examinationBasically this section states, an autopsy may be performed by written request of the deceased, by their will, power of attorney, or relevant relatives who are claiming the body for burial. If that helps click ACCEPT. Best Regards

What are the continuing education requirements for forensic pathologists in Pennsylvania?

A licensed forensic pathologist may be exempt from the requirement of attendance at the Basic Education Course and completion of the examination. 37 Pa. Code § 199.24. Coroners and deputy coroners are required to obtain a minimum of 8 hours of continuing education credits in each calendar year.