Q: What do I do when a loved one dies and comes to the Medical Examiner's Office.
You should select a funeral home and notify them that the case is being handled by the Medical Examiner's Office. The funeral home will have the next of kin sign an authorization to release the body to the funeral home you have selected. Once the autopsy has been performed, this office will contact the funeral home to pick up the body.
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Q: Are autopsies done on all cases?
The decision to perform an autopsy is made by the Medical Examiner on duty. An autopsy is performed if it is deemed necessary in order to determine the cause of death. In many cases an external examination and toxicology screen is sufficient.
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Q: Do I have to pay for an autopsy?
No. Any autopsy performed by the Medical Examiner's Office is done at the discretion of the Medical Examiner.
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Q: Who can get a copy of the autopsy report?
An autopsy report is public record. Anyone can come by and request a copy or mail in a request. There is a $25.00 fee for a copy of the report and a $35.00 for a certified copy. Effective 10-1-07, the next of kin is allowed one free copy, however a written request must be submitted, either by mail, fax or in person.
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Q: How can I get a copy of the autopsy report?
You can mail a request to Bexar County Medical Examiner's Office, Attn: Records Section, 7337 Louis Pasteur Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78229-4565 along with a self-addressed stamped envelope. The fee for a copy is $25.00, or $35.00 if you would like a certified copy. Do not send cash. Make check or money order payable to: Bexar County Medical Examiner.
Example: I would like a copy of the autopsy report for (Name). He/she died on (Date).
If you would like to come in person, click here for directions.
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Q: Is it necessary for me to come to the Medical Examiner's Office to identify a body?
No. In most cases, visual identification is not required.
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Q: Will personal effects be released to the family?
Yes. For the convenience of the family, personal effects are usually released to the funeral home.
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Q: Where can I obtain a copy of the Death Certificate?
Death certificates may be obtained from the Bureau of Vital Statistics in the County where the death occurred or from the funeral home.
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Q: How can I become a Medical Examiner (Forensic Pathologist)?
To become a Medical Examiner, you must obtain:
- High School Diploma
- A bachelors degree
- A Medical Degree (MD or DO)
- 3-4 Years training in Anatomoic and Clinical Pathology
- 1 Year of training in Forensic Pathology
- Board Certification from the American Board of Pathology
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Q: Will an autopsy interfere with an open casket viewing?
No. If there were no injuries before the autopsy, the incisions from the autopsy are easily covered by clothing.
Medical Examiner