Medical Examiner Reporting Procedures

When a death falls into any of the mandatory reported categories, an individual connected with the case should promptly notify the Medical Examiner's Office by telephone at 715-381-4358. When reporting a case, please have the following information available: 

• Name
• Address
• Age
• Sex
• Race
• Marital status
• Next of kin
• Summary of history, physical findings
• Name of last attending physician
• Other pertinent clinical data

Declining Cases

Although some cases must be reported, the Medical Examiner has the authority to accept or decline jurisdiction on a case-by-case basis. When the jurisdiction is declined, the attending physician signs the death certificate and the disposition of the body is the responsibility of the next of kin.

Requirements

Under no circumstances should clothing or effects be handled or disturbed prior to the examination of the body; or the scene altered, including moving weapons, items near the body, or to perform diagnostic examination, except by specific authorization of the Medical Examiner's Office. The body must be maintained in its original state. Personal effects and clothing obtained in Emergency Room situations must be meticulously protected, saved, and released to Medical Examiner or law enforcement personnel.

Releasing the Body

The body may not be released to anyone other than Medical Examiner personnel, unless so authorized by the Medical Examiner.

When to Contact the Medical Examiner

The Medical Examiner's Office must be contacted prior to the removal of any organs or tissues from cases that fall within the Medical Examiner's jurisdiction.

Next of Kin

Next of kin should be directed to call the Medical Examiner's Office, telephone number 715-381-4358, for more information on circumstances of death.