When is an autopsy required? Must the family authorize the procedure and are there costs involved?
Autopsy is an internal examination of a deceased. This would be performed by a coroner if they have jurisdiction over the death due to trauma, suspicious circumstances, lack of medical attendance by a physician or certain other causes. The coroner’s decision to autopsy does not need family authorization and there is no cost involved. However, if an autopsy were requested by the family or physician, a private pathologist would be called. This physician would require authorization and payment.