Albany County considers regional forensic facility to address autopsy service challenges

Albany County is exploring a significant shift in its approach to death investigations, as discussions at the recent Albany Law Committee meeting highlighted the potential transition from a coroner model to a medical examiner system. This change is driven by rising autopsy demands and increasing costs associated with forensic services.

Faye Betters, Albany County's data analytics and performance management coordinator, presented key statistics showing a notable uptick in coroner cases requiring autopsies, with 396 cases reported in 2023. The county's budget for laboratory fees and services has surged by 44% from 2024 to 2025, reflecting the growing need for these services. Currently, Albany County relies on Ellis Hospital for autopsy services, which has become more expensive as local hospitals close their morgues and outsource these critical functions.

The meeting underscored the differences between coroners and medical examiners. Coroners are elected officials without mandatory medical training, while medical examiners are appointed medical doctors with specialized training. Albany County remains one of the largest counties in New York still using the coroner model, while many neighboring counties have transitioned to medical examiner systems, which could offer more efficient and effective forensic services.

Betters proposed the idea of establishing a county-owned forensic facility that could serve not only Albany County but also neighboring regions. This facility could generate revenue by providing services to other counties, addressing the shortage of forensic pathologists, and ensuring high-quality autopsy results.

As Albany County grapples with these challenges, the potential shift to a medical examiner system could reshape how death investigations are conducted, ultimately aiming to improve public health and safety outcomes in the community. The committee's discussions signal a pivotal moment for Albany County's approach to forensic science and death investigations, with further evaluations and decisions expected in the coming months.