Oklahoma M.E.'s Office Clears Backlog Of More Than 300 Cases

A state agency plagued with problems in the past is working toward a new image for the new year.

Back in June, the State Medical Examiner's Office reported a backlog of 320 investigations. Since then, the Chief Administrative Officer says doctors have been working around the clock to get caught up.

The backlog is now at zero. M.E.'s Office spokesperson Amy Elliott said when the agency had backlog, it would take about 77 days to complete reports. It now takes about 21.

"I would hope that it would put us back where we need to be in the thoughts of the citizens of the state of Oklahoma," said Elliott. "My doctors and their support staff have worked tirelessly to get that backlog caught up."

The agency said this is the first step toward becoming accredited once again.

"Our current chief is very dedicated to the quality of our work, and we would hope within three to five years we would regain our national accreditation."

3/28/2011 Related Story: Oklahoma Medical Examiner's Office Hires New Chief

2/24/2010 Related Story: Delays at Medical Examiner's Office Concern Public Defenders, Prosecutors