What we do
The Medical Examiner’s Office (MEO) determines the cause and manner of death for sudden, unexpected, and unnatural deaths in Philadelphia. Our doctors, scientists, and technicians work with the Philadelphia Police Department to investigate these deaths.
We also provide services to support the families and loved ones of the deceased.
Our hours
For the general public
Our lobby is open Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You can request records, deliver forms, or pick up belongings of the deceased during this time.
For funeral directors
Pick-up hours are from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Call (215) 685-7484 or use the intercom when you arrive. You'll need a release from the family for pickup.
Connect
| Address |
400 N. Broad St.
(enter on Callowhill St.) Philadelphia, PA 19130 |
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MedicalExaminer |
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(215) 685-7445
to report a death, search for a missing person, obtain a status update on a case, or other time-sensitive issues (staffed 24 hours, 7 days a week)
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Our units
Investigation units
Seven units contribute specific information to individual cases.
- Forensic Anthropology helps identify the deceased.
- Forensic Investigation determines if a death comes under the jurisdiction of the Medical Examiner and investigates the circumstances surrounding the death.
- Forensic Odontology evaluates bite marks and uses dental records to identify the deceased.
- Forensic Technician coordinates the intake, release, and transportation of the deceased.
- Histology prepares tissue slides for microscopic analysis.
- Pathology determines both the cause and manner of death in every case that the Medical Examiner handles.
- Toxicology Laboratory analyzes postmortem specimens for drug abuse, prescription drugs, and poisons.
Support and review units
- Bereavement Support provides crisis intervention and support services to families who have lost a loved one.
- Fatality Review Program reviews the deaths of selected vulnerable populations to better understand the factors that contributed to the deaths.