The Rules and Regulations of SHC’s Medical Staff require that patient families be offered the opportunity to have an autopsy performed when a patient dies in the hospital. Risk Management attorney Chuck Norek, with input from autopsy service chief and pathologist Donald Regula, answers some questions physicians have raised about autopsies at Stanford:

• Who requests an autopsy at Stanford?

If a forensic autopsy is NOT requested by the coroner, a more thorough academic autopsy may be initiated at both SHC and LPCH by the family of the deceased or someone who has a power of attorney to make such decisions.

• So what’s the process to initiate an academic autopsy?

The family signs a consent for autopsy. At SHC, the consent, with other relevant information for family and staff, is contained in the Decedent Care Packet. The consent must also be signed by an individual who witnesses the signature. At LPCH, the ANS has the requisite forms and information.

• How can physicians facilitate the process?

When the discussion arises, physicians and other caregivers should feel confident to assure family members that the autopsy service is committed always to treat each body with dignity and respect during the procedure. If family members are in disagreement whether an autopsy should be performed, the Autopsy Service, (650) 723-6265, and Risk Management, (650) 723-6824, should be consulted.

• What can physicians tell family members to help them understand the benefits of an autopsy?

- Discovering inherited or familial diseases may help families with earlier diagnosis and treatment and family planning.

- Discovering an infectious disease may lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment for family members.

- Confirming a specific cause of death may be a comfort to the family.

- Knowledge gained during the autopsy may assist others to live longer and better lives from what is ultimately learned by examining the course and scope of the disease process.

• Is there a charge to the family for autopsy by SHC/LPCH?

No. Autopsies are offered without charge to families.

• Will organs be retained by the pathologist?

In a complete autopsy, the pathologist will retain the organs to achieve maximum benefits. However, the family may restrict the scope of the autopsy and also refuse to allow the pathologist to retain the organs. Even though optimal benefits may not be achieved from a restricted autopsy, SHC and LPCH will respect the wishes of the family.

• If there are questions, whom should I call?

The Autopsy Service may be contacted at (650) 723-6265.