Medical Examiner’s Office Holds Staff Training That Includes Jewish Burial Protocols

By Mindy Cohn

For years, the New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner (OCME) has worked together with the frum community through strong connections and liaisons that allow for educating, advocating, and establishing protocols concerning Jewish burial procedures. 

Last Thursday, Misaskim and Chesed Shel Emes, were invited to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in New York City to further that relationship along with other faith-based organizations. The topic of the day was religious beliefs. 

The role of the Medical Examiner is important in cases where the cause of death is unclear, and an autopsy may be warranted but is not halachically-permitted. Working with knowledgeable rabbanim, medical examiners often engage in less invasive procedures in compliance with halacha. In addition, New York City medical examiners are sensitive to issues like Shabbos and the importance of a timely burial.

Meyer Weill of Misaskim gave a presentation, as did Rabbi Meir Hersh Berger, Director of Chesed Shel Emes.