A Synoptic Review of the 1968 National Research Council Progress Report on Forensic Pathology

Abstract

In 1968, a “Committee on Pathology” existed within the National Academy of Sciences/National Research Council, Division of Medical Sciences. This group appointed an “ad hoc Committee on Forensic Pathology.” The Committee on Pathology prepared a progress report in April of 1968, and the ad hoc Committee on Forensic Pathology prepared a report in November of 1968. James Luke retained copies of these documents, which were reviewed to prepare this summary article of their content. Many of the issues and concerns raised in these reports remain today. Legal medicine and forensic pathology education in medical school is severely lacking. Exposure of pathology residents to a quality rotation in forensic pathology is deficient in many areas. Affiliations between death investigation offices and medical schools is highly variable and in need of improvement. Research and publication in forensic pathology occurs but needs to be bolstered. There are not enough forensic pathologists to meet the needs of the justice, public health, and public safety communities. Forensic pathology salaries remain non-competitive in many areas. It is difficult to recruit and retain forensic pathologists in the field. There remain practicing forensic pathologists who are not board-certified. Although television shows and movies have increased awareness about death investigation, they have not resulted in significant public or governmental appreciation and support for what forensic pathologists contribute to society. Progress has been made, but forensic pathology still has a long way to go.