How Much Does Autopsy Cost In South Africa 2024-2025
autopsy, also called necropsy, postmortem, or postmortem examination, dissection, and examination of a dead body and its organs and structures.
How Much Does Autopsy Cost In South Africa
A private autopsy, arranged by a funeral home, costs about R3 500. * If the person passes away in a car accident: You will most likely be notified of the death once the body is already in the mortuary.
Do you pay for an autopsy in South Africa?
Yes, the family/relatives have the right to arrange that a doctor of their choice attends the autopsy on their behalf with the permission of the attending forensic medical practitioner (doctor). Any fees required by this private doctor should be negotiated and paid by the relatives.
How do I get an autopsy report in South Africa?
This document must be submitted to the Department of Home Affairs to obtain a death certificate.
Once the post mortem report is finalized, it is sent to the relevant investigating officer.
A certified copy of the post mortem report can be obtained from the investigating officer if required.
How long after death does an autopsy take place?
A post-mortem will be carried out as soon as possible, usually within 2 to 3 working days of a person’s death. In some cases, it may be possible for it to take place within 24 hours.
Depending upon when the examination is due to take place, you may be able to see the body before the post-mortem is carried out.
How can I get a free autopsy?
Sometimes the hospital where the patient died will perform an autopsy free of charge to the family or at the request of the doctor treating the patient. However, not all hospitals provide this service. Check with the individual hospital as to their policies.
Will an autopsy show cause of death?
In rare cases, a definitive cause of death may not be identified following a complete and thorough autopsy.
Although this is quite unsatisfying for the pathologist and the family, a “negative” autopsy can still prove to be of vital importance.