How Do You Obtain A Post Mortem?

[sallyann16]

My father in law died a few weeks ago and the hospital is unable to explain fully how this happened. The Coroner's Office has refused a post mortem. How does one go about ordering a private post mortem? We don't want compensation, just to know how he contracted the condition that killed him.

[Mamyalynne]

A similar question recently has some information that may help.

https://www.theanswerbank.co.uk/Law/Question1621675.html

[Buenchico]

There seems to be no easy way to arrange a private post-mortem. The best place to ask would probably be the Royal College Of Pathologists. Try an email to [email protected]

[Sqad]

Odd......I thought if if the cause of death was undetermined, then a post mortem was manditary and that by law, the coroner had to perform a post mortem.

[Buenchico]

^^^ As I read the question, Sqad, there might be no doubt about the immediate cause of death but a question mark as to how that cause came about. (e.g. it might be clear that the patient died as the result of an MRSA infection but unclear as to how he came to have that infection in the first place).

I have to admit though that I can't see how a simple post mortem (rather than a coroner's court) could hope to provide the information which the questioner is seeking.

[Sqad]

Buenchico.....maybe, maybe.

[Peter Pedant]

First of all - I am sorry for your family's loss and the doubt and anger you are going thro

I dont think as yet you need a private post mortem
you need to speak to someone who would carry one out if it turned out that one were needed
and whether it should be done

https://www.forensicequity.com/forensic-pathology

seven people I dont know - so you can take your pick
I think they will be able to tell you what you will find out from a private examination and even whether it is worth it

or contact Dr Peter Acland who was the west mids home office pathologist who went private whom I did know - I think he is still in practice - even if he isnt it would worth a contact. you would need to google him

or the rcpath may have a list of private pathologists ( doubtful )

almost no-one will recommend one ( because their employers will chop their hands off ) because there is a fear that if things get screwed up the dissatisfied party will try to sue the recommender ( moot and unlikely).

I dont need more detail - but start at the place where he died and ask to see the consultant
You could also book an interview with the coroner ( you will see a bag carrier but it is still useful )

The coroner whose duties are who, where, what from and when MUST feel the answers are obvious. - as those are the legal questions he has to be sure about ....

A post mortem may NOT be the answer to 'now how did this all begin?' -

You dont need to tell us anything else
you need to contact and discuss someone in whom you have confidence.

discuss the possibility of a virtual post mortem ( you MRI the body after death )

[Peter Pedant]

// I have to admit I can't see how a simple post mortem could hope to provide the information which the questioner is seeking.//

neither can I -
but the question is: how do I get a post mortem done
NOT do you know what my father in law died from ?

[sallyann16]

Thanks so much guys - really useful info. Much appreciated.