What is forensic pathology?
Who are forensic pathologists?
What is an autopsy?
What is the "cause of death"?
What is the "manner of death"?
Forensic pathology for living patients?
Does my loved one need an autopsy?
We are sorry if you have recently lost a family member or loved one.
It is our experience that family members are more likely to regret NOT obtaining an autopsy than choosing to have an autopsy performed. Questions about the cause or manner of a loved one’s death can linger for years; the distress caused by these unanswered questions may often be answered by autopsy.
In many circumstances, your loved one may receive an autopsy ordered by the local coroner or medical examiner. When the death does not obviously fall under the legal provisions of a Governmental death investigation system, the coroner or medical examiner may not be able to legally perform an autopsy. In those circumstances, family members may be asked to pursue a “consented” or “academic” autopsy at a local hospital, or with a private (fee-for-service) autopsy service. If you are considering requesting an autopsy on a family member and have questions you would like answered, or if you need help finding private autopsy services in your local jurisdiction, we would be pleased to provide assistance.
What is a virtual autopsy?
In the last ten or so years, there has been growing recognition of the important role advanced radiology techniques (both CAT scans and MRIs) can play in death investigation. In some cases, either CAT scan or MRI can replace the need for traditional autopsy. Some jurisdictions in the United States and Canada have the technology to perform “virtual autopsies”. The data obtained during the course of a virtual autopsy can be transformational and significantly alter the path a case takes.
When CAT scans and MRIs are performed on living individuals, virtual “autopsies” of a sort can be performed on living people as well, with an eye toward answering difficult medicolegal questions. Although some people consider this the strict realm of radiologists, a growing number of forensic pathologists are comfortable performing virtual autopsy examinations.
What does a consultation involve?
A second opinion forensic pathology consultation involves numerous steps including:
- Application and conflict check
- Submission of all medical evidence
- Organization, review and summary of the medical evidence
- Generation of expert opinions
- Verbal report provided to client
- Written report provided to client upon demand
- Oral evidence upon demand.
It is our goal to complete steps 3 through 5 within seven calendar days.
How quickly can I have an expert opinion?
How much do consultation services cost?
The NAAG Forensic operates on a sliding scale, with the cost of consultations varying based on the complexity of the case, and the source of funding. Depending on the seniority of the forensic pathologist, and the funding source, hourly rates vary between $250 per hour and $500 per hour.
Governmental agencies and attorneys performing work on an “appointed” case are eligible to receive a 37.5% discount off our standard rates. Pre-negotiated flat rate fee arrangements may be available in some circumstances.
Does NAAG Forensic offer Pro Bono consultations?
YES, we rarely take on pro bono work in those cases where we believe a grave injustice has or will occur without expert level medical intervention, and where we are uniquely qualified to offer assistance. In those cases, the NAAG Forensic physicians are paid their standard consultation fees on the case by our Company, even if the client is unable to pay for our services.
Individuals seeking consideration for pro bono consultation(s) need to contact the Chair of the pro bono committee Mrs. Alyssa Shumaker for information on how to apply.
I might need a consultation. Where do I start?
If you are uncertain if a consultation with a forensic pathologist is right for you and your case, please contact us and ask to speak about how a consultation might assist your case, and if the NAAG Forensic would be the right fit for your needs. We would be happy to put you in touch with any of our doctors.