Certificate of Higher Autopsy Training
Certificate of Higher Autopsy Training
A certificate awarded to a histopathologist who has trained for the standard period of 5 years, plus an additional 6 months in autopsy pathology, and passed a more difficult exam in autopsy practice than pathologists who passed the standard RC-Path part 2 examination.The aims of this package are to:
•demonstrate a level of knowledge and skill consistent with practise as a consultant undertaking autopsies for the National Health Service or Her Majesty’s Coroners/Procurator Fiscal;
• demonstrate the ability to carry out and report autopsies independently, including the interpretation of relevant histopathology and other specialist investigations;
• demonstrate a working knowledge of the Coroner’s Rules and experience of the proceedings in the Coroner’s Court/Death and the Procurator Fiscal 2008 and proceedings of a Fatal Accident Inquiry;
• demonstrate a working knowledge of the Human Tissue Act and the health and safety regulations relevant to autopsy practice; and to
• develop experience of teaching autopsy technique to histopathology trainees.
Competencies required to complete package:
• Ability to technically carry out most autopsies, including the majority of complex and infectious cases;
• Ability to report appropriate autopsy histopathology and to interpret other relevant specialist investigations;
• Ability to appropriately refer cases and investigations to a more experienced colleague for specialist/second opinion;
• Ability to demonstrate excellent time management and task prioritisation in relation to autopsy practice (including ability to recognise which autopsies need to be undertaken as a matter of priority—e.g. for issues relating to faith);
• Ability to function effectively/competently in a Coroner’s Court/Fatal Accident Inquiry;
• Ability to teach in workplace and formal settings.
Practical experience:
• Time spent in specialty—At least 3 months full time equivalent in stage C, or, exceptionally, stage D of training;
• Autopsy numbers—At least 60 autopsies in the package (overall a minimum of 100 autopsies completed during full training programme), with a full and proportionate range of different case types;
• Attendance at court—Experience of attendance at Coroner’s Court/Fatal Accident Inquiry.
Assessments:
• Workplace-based assessments—6 in total, all directed;
• CHAT (Certificate of Higher Autopsy Training)—Pass;
• Educational supervisor’s report—Satisfactory.