What restrictions exist on sharing the findings in an autopsy?

Answer 1

If the autopsy determines no accidental, self-inflicted, or felonious death then the results would remain private under the provisions of HIPPA, and released only to the next of kin. If the death were ruled suspicious or felonious, the results would become potential evidence of a crime and would not be released. The cause of death is very rarely released by the Medical Examiner's or Coronor's Office. There are no legal restrictions on the release of the cause of the death by family members, however.

Answer 2

The findings of an autopsy are typically confidential medical information protected by privacy laws. Sharing these findings may require consent from the deceased person's next of kin or legal representative. Additionally, healthcare professionals and organizations are bound by ethical codes and professional standards that dictate how autopsy findings are communicated and shared.