Forensic Medicine
The Forensic Medicine Department at JDWNRH provides essential medico-legal services in Bhutan, addressing cases of violence, accidents, age estimation, and unnatural deaths. Established in 2005 by Dr. Pakila Drukpa, the department has since expanded to include a Forensic Toxicology laboratory with a GC-MS machine, offering specialized toxicology services since 2017. It also serves as the National Referral Centre, providing tele-consultation and training to healthcare workers across Bhutan.
Vision
- To be the leading center for forensic medicine in Bhutan, providing accurate, ethical, and timely medico-legal services and education.
Mission
- To deliver expert clinical forensic and pathology services to support the Bhutanese justice system.
- To train healthcare professionals in forensic medicine practices and procedures.
- To promote best practices and research in forensic medicine to ensure justice and public health.
Our Values
- Integrity: Upholding the highest standards of ethics and transparency.
- Professionalism: Committed to thorough, respectful, and compassionate care in all cases.
- Excellence: Striving for accuracy, quality, and continuous improvement.
- Collaboration: Working closely with law enforcement, healthcare providers, and the judiciary.
Services Provided
Clinical Forensic Medicine
- Medico-legal services for victims of domestic, sexual, and interpersonal violence.
- Examination services for road traffic accidents and workplace-related injuries.
- Age estimation for individuals with uncertain ages.
- Paternity testing and expert court opinions.
Forensic Pathology
- Investigation of unnatural deaths in collaboration with the Royal Bhutan Police.
- Autopsies and mortuary services (planned for future development).
Forensic Toxicology
- Basic toxicology services with the use of a GC-MS machine, established in 2017.
National Referral & Tele-Consultation Services
- Providing medico-legal advice and tele-consultation to regional and district hospitals.
- Training healthcare workers in medico-legal practices.
Training and Education
- Clinical training for MBBS interns and Health Assistant trainees.
- Planned teaching center for the Postgraduate Residency Program in General Practice.
Staff
Forensic Medicine Specialist
0
Forensic Laboratory Technologist
0
Forensic Health Assistants
0
Forensic Nurse
0
Ward Assistant
0
2017 Service Statistics
2017 Service Statistics
Future Plans
- Mortuary and Autopsy Facilities: Scheduled under the 12th Five-Year Plan.
- Expanded Toxicology Services: To improve detection and analysis in forensic investigations.
- Enhanced Training Programs: Planned postgraduate and residency programs to build a robust forensic medicine workforce in Bhutan.