Autopsy Committee

To help define and monitor the state of the art of autopsy pathology; to improve the performance and reporting of the autopsy; to promote utilization of the autopsy for quality improvement, research, education and public health; to contribute to the continuing education of CAP members and the larger medical community through the creation of surveys, publications, and educational seminars; to provide consultative services to all areas of the College as needed for activities, regulations, and legislation related to the autopsy.

This committee reports to the Council on Scientific Affairs. View a list of the Current Committee Members and find additional resources and information in the Autopsy Topic Center. 

Activities of Committee

• Supports the autopsy pathology Surveys program, which offers pathologists the opportunity to obtain 12.5 hours of continuing medical education (CME)/self-assessment module (SAM) per year. Develops the cases used in this program, and each member submits an average of 1.0 - 1.5 cases per year on the committee.
• Write chapters in CAP publications.
• Provide CAP annual meeting seminars when requested by the National Meeting Planning Committee.
• Review of the autopsy section of the CAP’s laboratory accreditation programs’ Anatomic Pathology Checklist and assist with laboratory accreditation program inquiries.
• Serve as a resource for CAP members, pathologists, and the public regarding autopsy principles and practice.
• Work with Council on Scientific Affairs, Forensic Pathology, Neuropathology, as well as other committees.
• Work with the House of Delegates and the Residents Forum on autopsy training, education and policy issues.

Expertise or Experience

• Board certified anatomic pathologist.
• Interest in advancing and promoting autopsy pathology.
• Knowledge of specific organ systems(s) (desirable).
• Experience with laboratory inspection and accreditation

Benefits of Committee Membership

• Edit, author, and produce CAP educational offerings.
• Quality assurance experience.
• Quality improvement experience.
• Participation in publications.
• Contribute content to the annual meeting.
• Educate CAP members on principles and practices of autopsy pathology.
• Improve communication skills.
• Promote the autopsy to other pathologists, the medical community, and the public.