216 R.I. Code R. § 216-RICR-60-10-1.12 - Autopsies

A. The Medical Examiner shall perform autopsies in those cases where, in the judgment of the Medical Examiner, the cause of death cannot be established with a reasonable degree of certainty and in those cases where the actual pathological findings must be documented, and in those instances where indicated in support of the provisions of R.I. Gen Laws Chapter 23-4 or this Part. In such cases autopsies may be performed without requiring permission of next of kin or legal representative.

B. Hospitals may request permission to perform autopsies on reportable death cases only upon completion of the investigation by the Medical Examiner or upon release of jurisdiction of the case by the Medical Examiner.

1. In some circumstances, the Medical Examiner may permit the hospital to perform the autopsy prior to issuance of the death certificate, provided that hospital obtains the proper permission from the next of kin or legal representative.

2. Hospitals performing autopsies must meet the requirements of the rules and regulations for the Licensing of Hospitals (Part 40-10-4 of this Title).

3. Copies of any autopsy reports performed by hospitals on cases referred to or released by the Medical Examiner shall, upon request, be submitted to OSME.

Notes

216 R.I. Code R. § 216-RICR-60-10-1.12