Scope of forensic work and services

Abstract

Forensic medicine management is essential for all health care organizations, in order for all physicians to understand and implement correctly and effectively.  Based on the level of responsibility, from basic forensics to specialist level, the application of all medical specialties are necessary to solve legal problems or lawsuits.  This is conducted by coordinating with Forensic Science in order to find evidences from the crime scene, weapons and ammunition, investigating for toxic substances, drugs, alcohol, DNA, fingerprints, and dental record for identity verification. The level of forensic practice depends on the circumstances and the environment, in which the physician professionally performs.  For example, general practitioner must understand the principles of investigating wound from the body and able to make accurate and correct forensic reports.  The physician should be able to conduct, perform and manage an autopsy according to the law, such as performing an autopsy at the crime scene, by being able to indicate the cause of death by him/herself, or consider for the investigation officer to send the body to the post mortem by forensic specialists.  This is especially necessary in the case of finding the cause of death and evidences to support a particular cause of death, from the autopsy performed, and other supporting evidences which would lead to find the suspect/s, as requested by the investigating officer.