Who can obtain copies of an autopsy report and death certificate?
The cause and manner of death is a matter of public record and can be released, unless release of such information will hinder or harm an on-going criminal investigation (Iowa Code 22.7(4)). The remainder of the information contained within an autopsy report is confidential and treated as a medical record. This information is available to the immediate and legal next-of-kin and to those with written permission from the immediate and legal next-of-kin. Others who may receive copies of the autopsy report include treating physicians, law enforcement agencies investigating the death, and county attorneys.
