BENEFITS OF FORENSIC PATHOLOGY
Pathology provides a wealth of information through the autopsy, or postmortem examination. Manner of death as well of mechanism of death can be deduced, and there is also an opportunity to collect trace evidence. In an autopsy, the pathologist will look at tissues under a microscope in an attempt to identify disease and toxins. They will examine wounds such as bullet holes, which can determine the type of gunpowder used, what angle the bullet came from, and where the bullet went within the body. If the identity of the corpse is unknown, a DNA test can determine that as well.
The pathologist must have several qualifications. Primarily, the career choice requires great devotion, as the training usually will last over ten years in the United States, including medical school, on-the-job training, and a special "pathology fellowship." They must also be able to testify in court, as witnessing is one of the most useful services that a pathologist will provide on behalf of the deceased. The pathologist must be able to tolerate violent scenes and the constant presence of death. Although this is a demanding job, there is a great job outlook, and most pathologists earn six figures per year as a reward for their dedication.
The pathologist must have several qualifications. Primarily, the career choice requires great devotion, as the training usually will last over ten years in the United States, including medical school, on-the-job training, and a special "pathology fellowship." They must also be able to testify in court, as witnessing is one of the most useful services that a pathologist will provide on behalf of the deceased. The pathologist must be able to tolerate violent scenes and the constant presence of death. Although this is a demanding job, there is a great job outlook, and most pathologists earn six figures per year as a reward for their dedication.
LIMITATIONS OF FORENSIC PATHOLOGY
Forensic analysis is expensive, and the tests and equipment that most autopsies require are quite costly. Mistakes, as well, are costly, and the pathologist must be exhaustively precise at the risk of misrepresenting the victim. They must make conclusions, and even educated guesses are sometimes wrong, and may fail to stand up in court. Each scientist will view the same data differently, and arguments may arise.
Not many people can perform this job, due to the long training period, required affluency in science, and often disgusting conditions. In addition, ethical issues may arise, including conflicts with people opposed to tests such as DNA analysis on the body.
Not many people can perform this job, due to the long training period, required affluency in science, and often disgusting conditions. In addition, ethical issues may arise, including conflicts with people opposed to tests such as DNA analysis on the body.
