Overview
Role: Anatomical Pathology – Forensic Pathologist (two full-time positions) at Fraser Health / Health Match BC. The Forensic Pathologist is responsible for autopsy investigations into sudden and unexpected or unnatural deaths reportable to the BC Coroners Service (BCCS), in accordance with the Coroners Act, for the province of British Columbia. The investigations aim to identify the decedent and determine cause and manner of death, provide documentation and expert opinion to assist civil and criminal matters, and support the Coroners Service in providing data to prevent similar deaths. The incumbent will conduct autopsies (including providing expert testimony in court as needed) and assist the Lead Forensic Pathologist and Chief Medical Officer in Quality Improvement and Research as needed. The successful candidate may act as a representative of the Lead Forensic Pathologist and the Coroners Service and fulfill delegated leadership activities as requested by the Chief Medical Officer or Lead Forensic Pathologist.
Responsibilities
* Completion of thorough autopsy investigations
* Provide guidance to Coroners and police regarding deaths to be investigated, the extent of investigation and medical history to be obtained
* Determine external examination vs. complete autopsy with appropriate specimens for histology, toxicology, and other tests
* Perform external examination or autopsy and collect specimens as deemed necessary
* Collaborate with other experts (e.g., Forensic Anthropologist, Forensic Odontologist) as needed
* Prepare reports outlining findings and conclusions in a timely manner
* Respond to correspondence and queries arising from autopsy investigations
* Provide balanced expert testimony in courts of law
* Be accessible for consultations from police and lawyers regarding findings and conclusions
* Respond to correspondence from legal counsel in a timely manner
* Coordinate schedules for subpoenas and courtroom testimony
* Meet with Crown Prosecutors, Defence Bar, and other legal counsel prior to testimony
* Provide testimony that clearly explains injuries, cause of death, and medical issues to judges and juries
* Promote understanding of Forensic Pathology and death investigation to agencies and individuals outside the BC Coroner’s Service
* Provide education and guidance to BCCS members in death investigations, including on-call duties
* Serve as a resource and teacher for police and lawyers and as a teacher for medical students, residents, Forensic Pathology Fellows, paramedics, and other professionals
* Support research or publication efforts undertaken by the Lead Forensic Pathologist or Chief Medical Officer, BCCS
Job Requirements
Knowledge and Experience: The incumbent must be an M.D. with specialty training and certification in Anatomical or General (Clinical) Pathology and an additional Fellowship year of training in Forensic Pathology, with certification in Forensic Pathology (Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, American Board of Pathology, DMJ (Path), or other equivalent). This includes knowledge of death investigation, identification techniques, autopsy and external examination techniques, report preparation, and provision of expert testimony. The incumbent must develop knowledge of and apply the provisions of the Coroners Act and other British Columbian legislation relevant to death investigation (e.g., Vital Statistics Act, Public Health Act, Cremation Internment & Funeral Services Act, FOIPPA). Proficiency in computers (including internet and Microsoft Office), licensure or eligibility for medical licensure in British Columbia, and a valid driver’s license.
Problem Solving
The incumbent makes a wide variety of decisions daily to maintain high standards and operations, including decisions during post-mortem examinations, application of BCCS policy and applicable legislation. Resources within the BCCS (e.g., Lead Forensic Pathologist, Chief Medical Officer, Medical Unit Administrator) are available to assist decision-making.
Behavioural Competencies
* Strategic Orientation
* Innovation and Change
* Results Orientation
* Analytic Thinking
* Relationship Building
* Flexibility
* Leading Others
* Teamwork and Cooperation
Travel
The incumbent may travel to other BCCS Post-Mortem Diagnostic Services sites to perform autopsies. Travel to Prince George for two days every four to six weeks as part of a rotating visiting forensic autopsy service.
Impact of Job
The Forensic Pathologist conducts post-mortem examinations and death investigations in BC in accordance with the Coroners Act. Conclusions influence coroners’ findings and the resolution of criminal and civil matters arising from these deaths.
Compensation
Compensation Type: Clinical Service Contract
Seniority level
* Mid-Senior level
Employment type
* Full-time
Job function
* Health Care Provider
Industries
* Hospitals and Health Care
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