This Fact Sheet reports on the accomplishments of a federal program initiated in 2017 to increase the number of practicing, board-certified forensic pathologists and strengthen the quality and consistency of medical examiner and coroner (ME/C) services to ensure equitable application of death investigation services.
Two purpose areas are funded under this program: (1) forensic pathology fellowships and (2) medical examiner-coroner office accreditation. The forensic pathology fellowships are intended to increase the number of practicing, board-certified forensic pathologists, and the accreditation program is intended to strengthen the quality and consistency of medical examiner and coroner ME/C services to ensure equitable application of death investigation services. The program has made 71 awards totaling $10.4 million. The number and amount of awards are reported for each purpose area (Fellowship and Accreditation) for each of the years 2017-2021. “Success Stories” resulting from the program are reported for Montgomery County, Texas, and Broward County, Florida.