How to become a medical examiner

How to become a Medical Examiner

To become a medical examiner, you will need to follow a specific educational and training path. Here's a general outline of the steps you'll need to take:

• Complete a Bachelor's Degree: Most medical examiner positions require a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or forensic science. Make sure to take pre-med courses in anatomy, physiology, and other sciences related to medicine.
• Attend Medical School: Medical examiners are medical doctors, so you'll need to attend medical school to earn a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree. Medical school typically takes four years to complete.
• Complete Residency Training: After graduating from medical school, you'll need to complete a residency program in pathology. Pathology residency programs typically last about four years. During your residency, you'll receive training in various aspects of pathology, including forensic pathology, which is relevant to medical examiner work.
• Obtain Medical Licensure: To practice medicine in the United States, you must be licensed in the state where you plan to work. Licensing requirements vary by state but typically include passing the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) or the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX).
• Gain Experience: Many medical examiner positions require several years of experience working as a pathologist, often including experience in forensic pathology.
• Optional Certification: While not always required, obtaining board certification in forensic pathology through the American Board of Pathology can enhance your credentials and job prospects as a medical examiner (see below).
• Apply for Medical Examiner Positions: Once you have completed your education, training, and any necessary certifications, you can begin applying for medical examiner positions. These positions may be available through county or state government agencies, medical examiner offices, or medical examiner contractor agencies.
• Continuing Education: As a medical examiner, it's essential to stay current with advances in the field of pathology and forensic medicine. Participating in continuing education activities and staying abreast of relevant research and developments will help you maintain your skills and knowledge throughout your career.

Certifications
Medical examiners can pursue various certifications to enhance their qualifications and demonstrate expertise in their field. While certification requirements may vary depending on the employer and jurisdiction, here are some relevant certifications for medical examiners:

• Board Certification in Anatomic Pathology: This certification, offered by the American Board of Pathology (ABP), demonstrates expertise in the diagnosis of diseases through the examination of tissues, organs, and bodily fluids. Anatomic pathology is a foundational area of expertise for medical examiners.
• Board Certification in Forensic Pathology: While not always required, board certification in forensic pathology can be highly beneficial for medical examiners. This certification, also offered by the ABP, signifies specialized training and expertise in performing autopsies, determining cause and manner of death, and providing expert testimony in legal proceedings.
• Certification in Medicolegal Death Investigation: The American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators (ABMDI) offers certification for professionals involved in death investigation, including medical examiners, coroners, and death investigators. This certification program covers various aspects of death investigation, including scene investigation, autopsy procedures, and legal considerations.
• Fellowship Training Certification: Medical examiners who have completed fellowship training in forensic pathology or related fields may receive certification from accredited fellowship programs. While not a formal certification board, completing a fellowship program demonstrates additional training and expertise beyond residency.
• Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) Certification: While not specific to medical examiners, ATLS certification is valuable for professionals involved in trauma care, including medical examiners who may encounter traumatic deaths. The American College of Surgeons offers this certification, which provides training in the initial assessment and management of trauma patients.
• Continuing Education Credits: Medical examiners are often required to maintain licensure and certifications through ongoing education. Participating in relevant conferences, workshops, and continuing education courses can help medical examiners stay current with developments in forensic pathology and related fields.