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Why I Want To Be A Medical Examiner

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Medical examination is a competitive field of work. That very few succeed in. In order to be a medical examiner, you need handwork and determination. Medical examination has a rich history, requires years of education and training, and come in various forms. The word autopsy derives from the Greek word autopsia, which means “the act of seeing for oneself” (Autopsy 1). An autopsy purpose is to “determine the cause of death, observe the effects of disease” (Autopsy 1). Human dissection was frowned upon until after the Middle Ages. The first human dissection was performed in 300 BCE by Herophilus and Erasistratus, two physicians who were studying disease (Autopsy 2). In the late 2nd century CE a Greek physician Galen of Pergamum was the first …show more content…

Residency programs give residents critical skills and real-world experience in their chosen field. “Medical school graduates must complete their residency in anatomic and forensic pathology in order to become medical examiners” (Pathology 3). In a forensic pathology residency residents “gain practical experience by participating in autopsies and investigations” (Pathology 3). In order to do well in a residency program, you need to gain the needed skills for the career chosen. “Medical examiners have strong skills in coordination, critical thinking, and social perceptiveness” (Pathology 3). Most Residency programs offer electives, so that residents can gain knowledge and experience in other fields similar to the one they wish to pursue (Pathology 3). “Electives for forensic pathology are for students to learn about the pathology of the systems they're interested in, such as molecular pathology, neuropathology, and transplant pathology” (Pathology …show more content…

During a fellowship for a forensic autopsy, a fellow will “work on a forensic team at a medical examiner's or coroner's office following the completion of a residency. They may participate in crime scene investigations, prepare courtroom testimonies, test body fluids and assist with autopsies” (Pathology 3). Fellowships normally last about a year and during that year fellows will “perform up to 300 autopsies while under the supervision of a certified forensic pathologist” (Pathology 3). The goal of a fellowship is to give the fellow responsibility and allow them to work on a case like it was their own, but with a trained professional there to correct them if they make a mistake. A fellowship gives insight on to wither or not the fellow is ready to be a certified medical examiner. Before becoming certified “medical examiners must obtain their state medical license” which, “can be done after graduating from medical school or during the course of a residency program” (Pathology 3). Licensing requirements vary among states, but most are commonly found in all states. After becoming a licensed medical doctor, medical examiners must become board certified. In order to become board certified medical examiners must pass the national certification exam which, is “offered by the American Board of Pathology and consists of questions regarding the practices and procedures used in forensic pathology” (Pathology 3). Once you are board

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