How much does an autopsy cost in Virginia?
A private autopsy by an outside expert can cost between $3,000 and $5,000. In some cases, there may be an additional charge for the transportation of the body to and from the autopsy facility.
How many medical examiners are in Virginia?
The OCME currently supports more than 160 local medical examiners, who may conduct scene investigations in their locality.
Does Virginia have medical examiners?
There are four district offices in Virginia’s medical examiner system. When an autopsy is required, it is done in one of these offices. Each office is staffed by board certified forensic pathologists, death investigators, administrative and morgue personnel who treat each case with respect and reverence.
Are autopsies required in Virginia?
Does the state require that pathologists perform the autopsies? Yes. In the investigation of any death or for the performance of any autopsy authorized or required pursuant to this article, the Commissioner may . . .
Can a coroner do an autopsy?
Who does the autopsy? Autopsies ordered by the state can be done by a county coroner, who is not necessarily a doctor. A medical examiner who does an autopsy is a doctor, usually a pathologist. Clinical autopsies are always done by a pathologist.
How do you become a coroner in Virginia?
The minimum requirements to be a local medical examiner in Virginia include:
- A valid Virginia license as a doctor of medicine or osteopathy, Nurse Practitioner, or Physician Assistant.
- An appointment by Virginia’s chief medical examiner.
- A valid United States driver’s license.
Can a family deny 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.