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Appendix A: The Coroners Act
The Coroners Act defines the roles and responsibilities of pathologists and coroners in death investigation and enhances the quality, organization and accountability of forensic pathology services. The Coroners Act:
- defines the OFPS as the unified system under which pathologists provide forensic pathology services, including autopsies
- defines the position of the chief forensic pathologist as overseer of forensic pathology services
- defines the positions of the deputy chief forensic pathologist and pathologist
- requires a registry of pathologists accredited to perform medico-legal autopsies
- requires the chief forensic pathologist to communicate with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario on any adverse findings related to competency and professionalism of a registered pathologist
Registered pathologists have legal authority under the Coroners Act to attend scenes and order ancillary tests as required, pursuant to their duties.
Updated: January 15, 2024
Published: August 06, 2021