Medical Examiners

Medical examiners and coroners are an integral part of the donation process. For all deaths where jurisdiction is taken, the only way donation can happen is by obtaining release. LifeCenter Northwest takes these jurisdiction cases very seriously. We respect your investigations and want to protect them.

Our technicians are trained in handling jurisdiction cases, and we have many protocols to ensure we are providing what you need. Below is a list of services that can help you with your investigations:

  • Trained technicians will photograph any unusual or clinically significant findings.  These photographs will be made available upon request.
  • If anything out of the ordinary is found during the recovery that was not noticed before, our teams will stop the recovery process and contact the medical examiner or coroner to determine next steps.
  • To ensure the family has the option of donation, medical examiners, coroners, or their designated pathologists are always welcome to be present at the recovery.
  • LifeCenter Northwest can provide an extensive pathology report free of charge from our cardiovascular processor, CryoLife, which has pathologists on-call for phone consultation.
  • Our recovery teams will always draw specified blood samples upon request.

    • For more information about the organ and tissue donation process, or for questions about how we can coordinate better with you, contact your LifeCenter Northwest medical examiner or coroner liaison:

    In Washington:

    Rob Houghton

    Tissue Services Project Specialist

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    In Montana and Idaho:

    Jan Hendrix

    Director, Tissue Donation Services

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