NIJ FY18 Strengthening the Medical Examiner-Coroner System Program

There is an extreme shortage of board-certified forensic pathologists in the United States, as underscored in the 2009 report by the National Academies of Sciences on Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States. This program will address strengthening the Medical Examiner-Coroner system in two project areas: 1.) By increasing the number and quality of board-certified forensic pathologists who choose the forensic pathology sub-specialty, following the completion of an accredited pathology medical residency program. 2. Assisting ME and Coroner offices achieve accreditation through a recognized accreditation body (examples: NAME, IACME). This program furthers the OJP's goal to increase public safety and improve the fair administration of justice across America through innovative leadership and programs. Compliance with accreditation requirements will assist medical examiner and coroner offices to strengthen the quality of services and data reporting.