Professor Marks and Dr Levy discuss Coroners and Medical Examiners

On Wednesday 28 May 2025, the Trust’s Medical Education team arranged an informative morning for junior doctors and Trust staff to learn more about the work of Coroners and Medical Examiners.

Professor Paul Marks is the HM Senior Coroner for the County of the East Riding of Yorkshire and City of Kingston Upon Hull. He began the presentations with a look back at how coronial court was first introduced and how significantly it has changed over time. Rooted in the need for a posthumous duty of care for the dead, in today’s society Coroner’s are required when questions remain unanswered about the cause of death of a patient.

In contrast, Medical Examiners provide independent scrutiny of the causes and manner of deaths not investigated by coroners. They ensure that the death certificate accurately reflects the causes and identify any concerns about care that may have contributed to the death. Dr Mel Levy, Medical Examiner and Consultant Histopathologist, shared insights into how death certificates should be accurately completed and why this is so important.

The event sparked questions and interest from the junior doctors currently under the Medical Education team. By providing scenario-based information and processes both Professor Marks and Dr Levy were able to equip our doctors with key skills for the future.