Medical examiners (MEs) are appropriately trained doctors who will verify clinical information on Medical Certificates of Cause of Death (MCCDs) and ensure that the right referrals are made to the coroner for further investigation.
A practising medical practitioner who has been on the general medical council register for a minimum of five years post‑registration can apply to be a medical examiner. It is recommended that medical examiners are consultant‑grade doctors from a range of disciplines, including GP principals.
Accreditation as a Medical Examiner is through the Royal College of Pathology and has two components: e‑learning and face‑to‑face training. It is expected that the e‑learning is completed before interview and that the face‑to‑face training, if not already completed, should take place within six months of starting the role.
Responsibilities
* Ensure compliance with legal and procedural requirements relating to current and reformed processes for death certification, coroner investigation, and registration.
* Scrutinise causes of death provided by attending doctors in a proportionate, consistent manner in line with national protocols.
* Discuss and explain causes of death to next of kin/informants sensitively, transparently, and tactfully, mainly via telephone where barriers to understanding exist.
* Ensure all users of the Medical Examiner (ME) system are treated with dignity and without discrimination on the grounds of sex, race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, or disability.
* Maintain accurate records of all deaths reviewed and provide analysis and information to the National Medical Examiner’s Office.
* Identify deaths that may require reporting as serious incidents and ensure referral for structured judgement reviews where appropriate.
* Participate in clinical governance activities, including audits, mortality reviews, investigations, and complaints relating to patient care.
* Support and train junior doctors in death certification and promote accurate completion of MCCDs.
* Countersign AP MCCDs and issue ME MCCDs following receipt of CN1B forms from the Coroner.
* Work collaboratively with Medical Examiner Officers (MEOs), site medical directors, and fellow Medical Examiners, sharing expertise to support peer learning and consistent service standards.
About the Trust
We are one of the largest hospital trusts in England, with three acute hospitals and community sites serving a local population of around 800,000. We also provide specialist services for Kent and Medway.
We’re on an exciting journey of transformation. With a new Medical School at the centre of our community, a focus on research, clinical leadership and making our trust a rewarding and friendly place to work, there’s never been a better time to join us.
At East Kent, we will do all we can to help you grow a career around you, your family, your location and your interests.
We offer flexible and fulfilling career solutions that work for you and unique opportunities to innovate and inspire – all in a county where you can enjoy your life to the full, whatever your interest.
Additional Information
Applicants who meet the above qualifications are encouraged to apply before the advert closes on Sunday 3 May 2026.
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