Strengthening the Medical Examiner-Coroner (ME/C) System Program

In the “2019 Report to Congress: Needs Assessment of Forensic Laboratories and Medical Examiner/Coroner Offices”, the National Institute of Justice outlined the extreme shortage of practicing board-certified forensic pathologists and highlighted the importance of implementing strong quality systems in these offices. In response to this report, the Strengthening the ME/C System Program was created and administered by the U.S. Department of Justice’s, Office of Justice Programs, to provide funding to increase the number of qualified forensic pathology practitioners and assists ME/C offices in obtaining and maintaining accreditation. Accreditation allows for an independent body to assess an ME/C office’s quality assurance system and ensure the office has adequate staff, equipment, training, and facilities to provide a high standard of service. By addressing these gaps in the MDI field, the Strengthening the ME/C Program helps to ensure quality and consistency in the services provided by ME/Cs around the country.