Medical Examiner

South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust (STSFT) is introducing a Medical Examiner (ME) role in line with national guidance in preparation for this role to become a statutory role. It will complement the STSFT mortality review process to support the implementation of national guidance on learning from deaths. The STSFT MEs will be appropriately trained, experienced Consultants who will provide support and guidance to medical staff undertaking death certification and be the primary point of contact for bereaved families who have any concerns about care prior to death. Whilst undertaking this role for all in-hospital deaths they may identify cases which would benefit from further review by the Trust Stage 2 Mortality Review Panel or an escalation to the Medical Director for further scrutiny. STSFT MEs will also countersign death certificates as part of their role. Medical Examiners will have professional independence when reviewing deaths. Medical Examiners must avoid any potential conflicts of interest and must transfer to another ME the responsibility for the review of any death in which they have had a personal, professional or fiduciary relationship with the deceased person, the next-of-kin or near relative of the deceased, or with the attending doctor who prepared the MCCD. PLEASE REFER TO THE ATTACHED JOB DESCRIPTION FOR FULL DUTIES OF THE ROLE