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

• Support the Autopsy Pathology Program (AUP), which offers pathologists the opportunity to obtain 12.5 hours of continuing medical education (CME) per year while developing and maintaining proficiency in autopsy pathology. Each committee member submits an average of 1.0 - 1.5 AUP cases per year.
• Review the autopsy section of the laboratory accreditation program’s Anatomic Pathology Checklist and assist with laboratory accreditation program inquiries.
• May write or edit content for CAP publications.
• May provide CAP annual meeting seminars.
• Serve as a resource for CAP members, pathologists, and the public regarding autopsy principles and practice.
• May work with Council on Scientific Affairs, Forensic Pathology, Neuropathology, as well as other committees on CAP initiatives that intersect with autopsy pathology.
• May 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).

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.