KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI) — The Knox County Regional Forensic Center is once again receiving the highest level of national recognition for its work in medicolegal death investigations.
Earlier this month, the National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME) recommended full accreditation for the facility, continuing a streak the center has maintained since May 2010.
The distinction represents the top endorsement from the leading professional organization for medical examiners in the United States.
“This recognition lets everyone we serve know that Knox County delivers and maintains a high caliber of medicolegal death investigation,” said Chris Thomas, Director and Chief Administrative Officer of the forensic center. “I am proud of everyone who works here. The job can often be difficult, stressful and even emotional, but everyone on the team is a consummate professional and up to the task.”
Achieving and maintaining full accreditation requires an extensive and rigorous process. According to officials, NAME evaluates facilities using a detailed 350-point inspection that reviews autopsy practices, laboratory operations, staff qualifications, and overall procedures.
The process also includes routine oversight. A NAME consultant conducts on-site inspections every four years, while annual reviews ensure the center continues to meet strict standards through documented reports, policies, and performance metrics.
Tennessee is the only state in the nation that requires full NAME accreditation for its medical examiner facilities.
Even with that requirement, the recognition remains rare. As of the end of 2025, fewer than 100 of the roughly 2,400 death investigation systems across the country hold full accreditation — placing Knox County’s facility among approximately the top four percent nationwide.
Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs praised the continued achievement and the work performed by forensic staff.
“This endorsement assures every citizen we serve that the Knox County Regional Forensic Center operates at the highest level,” Jacobs said. “I’m proud of the exceptional work performed by the dedicated staff there. Their work is important, challenging, and largely behind the scenes. I’m grateful for their service and admire the commitment they bring every day.”
The most recent on-site inspection took place last summer, with the next scheduled for 2028. In the meantime, the center must continue submitting annual reports to maintain accreditation status.
The Knox County Regional Forensic Center operates around the clock and provides services to 23 counties. It also serves as the official medical examiner’s office for Knox, Anderson, and Blount counties.
Officials say the ongoing recognition underscores the center’s commitment to excellence, accuracy, and public trust in one of the most critical — and often unseen — aspects of public safety.
