SJC medical examiner contract will likely be renewed

It appears St. Joseph County’s contract with Western Michigan University for medical examiner services will be renewed.

During their executive committee meeting Wednesday, county commissioners recommended continuing their contract with Western’s medical school.

County clerk Lindsay Oswald said a request for qualifications and proposals was sent through the Michigan Association of Medical Examiners, as well as to a few individuals who had expressed interest in the past.

The proposed contract averages more than $160,000 annually over the course of the four-year agreement.

Commissioner Dan Czajkowski explained the services of a medical examiner are required in any situation outside of an age-related death. He said the examinations range from a complete physical autopsy, an autopsy by examination of x-rays or by visual examination.

Approval of the proposed contract will appear before commissioners at their board meeting Tuesday next week.