Frequently Asked Questions

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WHAT IS AN AUTOPSY?

An autopsy is a complete, extensive, and thorough examination of a deceased individual. The word autopsy comes from a Greek term meaning "to see for oneself". An autopsy involves both a physical examination of the organs and tissues as well as a microscopic examination. The report generated from the autopsy procedure is called an Autopsy Protocol and describes in detail all of the findings.

WHO PERFORMS AN AUTOPSY?

The autopsy procedure involves a team of autopsy professionals including pathologists' assistants and autopsy technicians led by an autopsy physician, called a pathologist. A pathologist is a board certified MD physician who specializes in the study of diseases. Pathologists' assistants are certified by the American Society for Clinical Pathology and an autopsy technician has received extensive specialized training in autopsy procedures. Forensic autopsies tend to be performed by a forensic pathologist with the assistance of a technician.

ARE WE QUALIFIED?

We are board-certified forensic pathologists, board certified anatomic pathologists, certified pathologists' assistants, and autopsy technicians. We have experience in hospitals, medical examiner's and coroner's offices, academic centers, tissue banks and funeral homes.

WHAT WILL I RECEIVE FROM YOU WHEN THE AUTOPSY IS COMPLETED?

Within 45 to 60 business days, the legal next of kin will receive the final autopsy report which includes a detailed gross and microscopic examination and description of all organ systems and the presence or absence of all findings.

HOW MUCH DOES AN AUTOPSY COST?

Complete and Partial Autopsy Price Range: $1650-2500. Depending on scope of work please call exact quote based scope of the autopsy.

HOW DOES PAYMENT WORK?

For private autopsies, we require payment in the form of credit card/debit card, electronic transfer, money order, PayPal, or cashier's check before the autopsy is scheduled.