DEPUTY MEDICAL EXAMINER (PATHOLOGIST) 2824

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

An employee in this class performs postmortem examinations in cases coming under the jurisdiction of the Medical Examiner's Office in order to determine cause of death and manner of death. The work also involves visiting scenes of deaths and examining undisturbed bodies in cases where there may be a concern of a homicidal manner of death, as well as working with law enforcement and the District Attorney to assist in directing the preliminary investigation of such cases. Performs related work under the direction of the Chief Medical Examiner, as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

Performs postmortem examinations;

Collects, reviews, and ensures proper disposition of physical evidence, as warranted;

Evaluates the results of postmortem ancillary studies including but not limited to toxicology, histology, chemistry, and microbiology;

Reviews antemortem medical records; consults with clinicians, and communicates with decedents’ family, friends, and associates, as needed;

Generates written reports of findings and conclusions of examinations and investigations;

Provides guidance to Medical Forensic Investigators;

Provides quality assurance for cremation clearances and cases referred to, but not accepted by, the Medical Examiner’s Office;

Communicates with law enforcement and the District Attorney regarding cases;

May testify at a variety of legal proceedings concerning findings and observations;

Teaches and oversees medical and physician assistant students and residents;

May perform related duties and responsibilities as directed by the Chief Medical Examiner.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Thorough knowledge of the principles, practices, methods, techniques, literature, and current developments in the fields of anatomic pathology and forensic pathology; good knowledge of principles, practices, methods, techniques, literature, and current developments in the fields of general medicine and surgery; ability to tactfully obtain accurate information from outside sources through interviews and observations; ability to exercise independent judgment, critical thinking, deductive reasoning, and ingenuity in addressing complex problems; ability to communicate tactfully and professionally with colleagues, outside agencies, and the general public; ability to present ideas effectively both orally and in writing; honesty; integrity; discretion/confidentiality; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Possession of a license to practice medicine in the State of New York

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Candidates who do not currently possess a valid certification by the American Board of Pathology in Anatomic Pathology (AP) or Anatomic and Clinical Pathology (AP/CP) will be expected to obtain certification within a reasonable amount of time after appointment, as determined by the appointing authority.

Candidates who do not currently possess a valid certification by the American Board of Pathology in Forensic Pathology (FP) will be expected to obtain certification within a reasonable amount of time after appointment, as determined by the appointing authority.

Once obtained, all valid board certifications will be expected to be maintained throughout employment in this title, barring the occurrence of unforeseen or exceptional circumstances as determined at the discretion of the appointing authority.

R 07/30/21

SUFFOLK COUNTY

Non-Competitive