The Mississippi Association of Pathologists (MAP) and the CAP on March 1 secured an amendment to a second autopsy bill that would establish a new position of “Medical Examiner Investigator.” The MAP and the CAP were concerned that the legislation’s newly created position should have clear requirements, including that these individuals be supervised by a pathologist and only be limited to an assistant role. The CAP’s strong partnership with the MAP reinforces advocacy efforts to ensure the scope of practice policies are applied at the state level.
The MAP and CAP secured an amendment to the Mississippi House Bill 974 requiring that the Medical Examiner Investigator position be appointed and trained, and be supervised, by the State Medical Examiner. The Medical Examiner Investigator cannot certify death certificates independently and may only assist the State Medical Examiner with autopsies. The MAP and CAP urged the Mississippi legislature to regulate the Medical Examiner Investigator position to ensure compliance with CAP policy and ensure quality in forensic procedures.
The MAP and CAP amendment position was supported by the National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME). The CAP and MAP successfully negotiated the language with the Mississippi’s Public Safety Commissioner. Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves is expected to sign the legislation into law.