ACFEI Launches Certified Forensic Physician® Program

Forensic physicians play a crucial role in the American justice system, but they have long needed recognition for their expertise and abilities.

The American College of Forensic Examiners Institute has stepped forward to establish a certification that sets standards for qualified physicians who wish to identify their specialty as forensic physicians.

The Certified Forensic Physician® program is recruiting the world's leading forensic physicians. This new certification should become the world-standard for those in this rapidly evolving field.

Dr. Cyril Wecht, the world-renowned coroner and ACFEI member, said that forensic physicians provide a wide range of service. "Forensic physicians are medical and osteopathic physicians who deal with various kinds of legal matters that relate to either the civil or criminal justice system," Wecht said. "This kind of professional practice is usually conducted on a part-time basis by any kind of medical specialist, with the exception of many forensic pathologists who are full time forensic specialists practicing in governmental medical-legal investigative offices (Coroner or Medical Examiner)."

The first physicians in the program were certified in 2008. "I am honored to be one of the first Certified Forensic Physicians (CFP) in the American College of Forensic Examiners (ACFEI) organization," said Douglas W. Beal, MD, MSHA, CMI-V, CFP. "There are many medical practitioners who claim to have a forensics background; however, few have the requisite education and experience to qualify for this prestigious title. The CFPSM designation is yet another step by the ACFEI to 'raise the bar' in the rapidly evolving forensic medical environment. I strongly encourage all qualified professionals to submit their application and supporting materials."

To qualify for the CFP program, a physician must hold an active license as an MD or DO and have no disciplinary record or ethical violation with any licensing board. The physician must have at least 5 years of medical experience.

For a limited time during the open enrollment period, an applicant may become certified by meeting the minimum requirements and submitting a portfolio of relevant documentation.

At the conclusion of the open enrollment, applicants will be asked to complete course work and pass an examination.

The examination for the program is being prepared by Dr. Michael Karagiozis.

To apply for the certification, go to www. acfei.com/forensic_certifications/cfp, or call ACFEI member services at (800) 592-1399.

The application may be filled out online or submitted by fax to: (417) 881-4702. Applications may also be mailed to 2750 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, MO 65804.
Courtesy of Dr. Robert O'Block, Founder and Publisher