Helpful Information: Autopsies, Coroner Cases and Death Certificates
The Bereavement Team at provides the following information for parents of children who have died at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center.
If you consented to an autopsy
The funeral home of your choice will be contacted when the autopsy is completed, usually within 24-48 hours after the death. It will take approximately 90 days for the results to be established, reviewed, typed and available.
You will not automatically receive a copy of the autopsy. You can request a copy by calling medical records at 513-636-0664. It is suggested that you have your doctor call and request a copy, then have him/her review the report with you.
It may be helpful to have your physician review the report first and then go over it with you to explain the findings, the medical terminology and/or answer any questions you have.
If your child's body was taken to the Coroner's office (the coroner took jurisdiction)
Your child's body will be released from the Coroner to the funeral home of your choice when the autopsy is completed. You will need to call the Coroner's office directly with the funeral home information.
If you need to contact the Coroner, they can be reached at 513-946-8700. The Coroner's office is not part of Cincinnati Children's Hospital.
You will not be able to view your child's body at the Coroner's office but you can arrange a private viewing at the funeral home handling the service.
Death Certificates
If you need a copy of the death certificate and the funeral home who served you is not able to assist, you will need to call the Bureau of Vital Statistics at 513-352-3813. There is a charge for each copy requested.
