Medical Examiner Job & Career Information

A medical examiner is a professional that performs autopsies to determine the way a person died. The role of a medical examiner is always a necessary one regardless of economic conditions.

Types

There are two types of medical examiners: anatomical pathologists and forensic pathologists. Some medical examiners are experienced in both forms of pathology.

Function

Anatomical pathologists specialize in examining the internal organs and structures of the body to identify causes of death related to disease or illness. Forensic pathologists are medical examiners who work with the bodies of crime victims to help solve criminal cases. When the cause of death is determined, the medical examiner writes a report recounting the details. At times, medical examiners may be called upon to testify in hearings or other legal proceedings.

Training

All medical examiners must receive a bachelor's degree, typically in a science- or health-related field. They must then continue their schooling and receive a doctorate of medicine and be certified in pathology. Forensic pathologists frequently have law degrees as well. It can take between 12 and 16 years to complete all of the necessary training for a career in medical examining.

Employment

Anatomical pathologists are typically employed by hospitals, while forensic pathologists are employed by county, state or federal government agencies such as the local police or the FBI.

Compensation

Anatomical pathologists typically earn an average salary of $200,000 per year. There is more variation in forensic pathologist salaries, which can average between $75,000 and $200,000 per year depending on where the examiner is employed and her experience level.