216 R.I. Code R. § 216-RICR-60-10-1.20 - Records and Reports

A. Information and reports obtained from law enforcement agencies, local or state institutions, agencies such as hospitals, and employers in relation to deaths reported in accordance with § 1.9 of this Part, which are deemed by federal or state law to be confidential, shall be kept confidential by the OSME and be released only to person(s) who can demonstrate a legal right to said information and/or records and then only pursuant to a valid subpoena.

B. Autopsies and other reports and findings of OSME (except homicides and other criminal cases remaining under investigation and awaiting adjudication) shall be available to:

1. the next of kin or authorized legal representative responsible for the disposition of the body,

2. insurance carriers subject to the written consent of the next of kin or authorized legal representatives, and

3. physicians who were responsible for the care of the decedent.

C. Copies of autopsy reports shall not be provided for inclusion in hospital medical records.

D. All requests for reports must be submitted in writing.

E. Certified copies of death certificates are to be procured from the Division of Vital Statistics, Rhode Island Department of Health.

F. Certified copies of "Proof of Death" are available from the Medical Examiner in lieu of a death certificate which has not been completed.

G. For Rhode Island Deaths, cremation certificates shall be available from OSME.

Notes

216 R.I. Code R. § 216-RICR-60-10-1.20