Normally the deceased’s doctor is informed in writing of the medical cause of death contained in the post-mortem report and will be sent a copy of the report. The next-of-kin will also be advised when the report has been received to enable them to make contact with the doctor.
Can a death be registered after a post mortem?
If toxicology tests (testing for, eg, alcohol, medications) are required, it could be longer. A death cannot be registered until a post mortem report is received. Queries relating to post mortem results should be made to the relevant Coroner’s office rather than the hospital concerned.
What are post mortem procedures for wildlife veterinarians?
– Post-mortem procedures for wildlife veterinarians and field biologists Published jointly by the Office International des Epizooties, Care for the Wild and the Veterinary Specialist Group/Species Survival Commission of the World Conservation Union (IUCN) Post-mortem procedures 3
Do you need the next of kin consent for a post mortem?
A Coroner does not need the consent of the next-of-kin to have a post mortem examination carried out. This is a special medical examination of the body. These findings identify the medical cause of death and often determine whether any further action on the part of the Coroner is required.
What should be included in a post mortem examination?
The examination usually includes an assessment of the main internal organs and of parts of the body that are thought may be involved with the cause of death. The post-mortem is undertaken by a pathologist, who is a specialist doctor that assesses tissue to discover disease and the causes of injury.
When to apply for a judicial review of a post mortem?
Any application for a judicial review needs to be made as a matter of urgency if a family is unhappy with a coroner’s decision to undertake a post-mortem, as the post-mortem will be undertaken as soon as practicable. They should take specialist legal advice on this process. Do I get a copy of the post-mortem report?
Can a family member request a post mortem report?
Relatives are allowed to request copies of the post-mortem report from the coroner as an interested party. The post-mortem report can be quite a technical document, and will be set out in a very medical and matter-of-fact way.
Who is responsible for the post mortem in a case?
The post-mortem is undertaken by a pathologist, who is a specialist doctor that assesses tissue to discover disease and the causes of injury. They are appointed by the Chief Coroner’s office to undertake post-mortems to assist local coroners as part of inquest investigations.
