Autopsy Pathology

Compassionate Private Autopsies in VA, MD, DC, FL, CA, PA & CT
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Autopsy Pathology

Losing a loved one is profoundly difficult. When families seek closure, a private autopsy (also known as an independent medical autopsy) can provide critical answers. At EPIARX Diagnostics, Dr. Nemanja Rodic, MD, PhD, and board-certified pathologist, offers compassionate guidance and expert analysis to help clarify the cause and manner of death. Our approach includes:

  • Consultations scheduled same-day—often within 24 hours

  • Detailed preliminary report delivered in 2 business days

  • Seamless coordination with your funeral director to preserve arrangements

  • Confidential service provided across Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, Florida, California, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Delaware

Whether the Medical Examiner declines a case or questions remain after a hospital autopsy, our private review can uncover hereditary conditions, chemical exposures, or medical oversights, bringing understanding and peace. 

Why Choose EPIARX & Dr. Rodic?

  1. Board-certified expertise – MD, PhD, 15+ years in diagnostic pathology

  2. Fast turnaround – Preliminary findings within 2 business days, final report in 5–7 days

  3. Direct physician support – Clear, compassionate one-on-one consultation

  4. Flexible & funeral-friendly – We respect embalming/funeral timing and logistics

  5. Anatomical depth – Includes organ examination, histology, toxicology, and genetic insights

Our Approach

Private Autopsy Process

  1. Schedule: Call or book online for a same-day consultation with Dr. Rodic.

  2. Consultation: Review medical records, the circumstances of death, and your questions.

  3. Autopsy Performance: We conduct a full anatomic exam—internal organs, tissue histology, fluid tests, and genetic screening if indicated.

  4. Preliminary Report: Delivered within 2 business days; includes initial findings and next steps.

  5. Final Report & Follow‑Up: Comprehensive analysis in 5–7 days, with a follow-up call to explain results and implications.

Common Reasons to Choose Private Autopsy

Families often seek private autopsies when:

  • Death was sudden, unexpected, or followed medical procedures.

  • Medical Examiner decided against an autopsy.

  • Questions about nursing-home negligence, malpractice, or wrongful death.

  • Suspected chemical or occupational exposure.

  • Need to identify inherited diseases (e.g., Alzheimer’s, heart disease, cancer)

  • Desire for clarity—even after a hospital autopsy.

Some Commonly Asked Questions

What is an autopsy?

An autopsy is a medical examination of a body after death to provide answers about the immediate and underlying causes of death.   The autopsy procedure includes examination of the deceased person’s internal organs as well as laboratory testing of body fluids and tissues.   

Why would I need a private autopsy?

A family may choose to have a private autopsy completed if they have unresolved questions surrounding the death of their loved one. A diagnosis of the cause of death of their loved one by a board-certified pathologist helps family members to find a degree of closure.

Autopsy findings may also assist surviving family members with their health care. In some instances, evidence of a hereditary disease or chronic degenerative condition that surviving family members may be unaware of is found during the autopsy process. This disease or condition may require medical intervention.

Reasons for a private autopsy may vary, but some of the most common include:

  • Sudden or unexplained death (such as unexplained or unexpected death, occurring or following any medical, surgical, or dental diagnostic procedure or therapy);

  • Suspected COVID-19 death;

  • The local Medical Examiner’s office decides not to perform an autopsy following a loved one’s death, leaving the family with unanswered questions about the passing of their loved one.

  • Cases of possible nursing home negligence, medical malpractice, misdiagnosis, or wrongful death;

  • Suspected or known exposure to carcinogens, toxic chemicals, or material (e.g., inquiry regarding mesothelioma; and

  • Death where there is a need to document inherited diseases such as colon cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, etc.

Private autopsies can be done soon after a person has passed away (even if an autopsy has already been performed by a hospital or some other entity).

Will this delay a funeral or cremation?
No. We coordinate closely with directors to avoid delays.

Is embalming affected?
Depending on timing, if embalmed first, we may perform a limited autopsy. We’ll plan accordingly.

How is genetic testing handled?
With family consent, tissue or fluid samples can be sent for DNA analysis to screen for hereditary conditions.

Find answers and closure you deserve.

Reasons to speak to a pathologist directly:

Clarity

Pathologists are the people behind the microscopes who interpret exactly what is going on within your cells. They have the technology to identify small changes or issues. Speaking directly with Dr. Rodic will provide precision clarity on your diagnosis so that you can make fully informed decisions.

Guidance

Not understanding how your diagnosis will affect your life may feel like a burden, especially if you don’t have a support system to guide you. Dr. Rodic prides himself on being the person to not only personally identify your specific ailment but also, guide you on the right path afterwards.

Empathy

Medicine can feel daunting, and small changes can really make a huge impact on your life. Conversations with medical professionals shouldn’t be cold and confusing. Dr. Rodic is passionate about connecting with his clients outside of their diagnosis and humanizing their experience with empathy.