Hancock County addresses medical examiner staffing crisis with training plans

A looming medical examiner crisis was the focal point of the Winnebago County Supervisors meeting on April 29, 2025, as officials discussed urgent plans to address staffing and training needs. With the current medical examiner's term ending on June 1, the county is racing against the clock to ensure continuity in services.

Supervisors highlighted the necessity of sending personnel to a medical examiner training class in Ankeny, scheduled for June. The course costs $500 per participant, and officials are considering sending three individuals, including Thomas Gaither, Joe, and Spencer, to bolster the county's investigative capabilities. The budget for autopsy and medical examiner fees currently has a cushion of $21,000, which will help cover training and associated costs like travel and accommodation.

Concerns were raised about the potential impact on scheduling and service delivery during this transition. The current system relies heavily on a call schedule that often lacks adherence, leading to uncertainty in response times. Supervisors acknowledged the need for a more structured approach to ensure that all calls are handled efficiently, especially as they anticipate an increase in demand for services.

Additionally, discussions touched on the complexities surrounding nursing home deaths and the challenges of obtaining accurate death certificates. The county is exploring ways to streamline processes to avoid confusion and ensure timely reporting.

As the meeting concluded, officials expressed optimism about the county's ability to navigate this crisis, emphasizing the importance of training and collaboration with neighboring counties to maintain essential services. The next steps will involve finalizing training arrangements and addressing scheduling concerns to ensure a smooth transition as the county prepares for the upcoming changes.