3 Questions with Theodore Brown, MD, FASCP

As a forensic pathologist, Theodore Brown, MD, FASCP, feels he serves patients like any other physician.

The only difference is that his patients are no longer living.

As Director and Chief Medical Examiner for the Department of Public Safety, Arkansas State Crime Laboratory, Dr. Brown describes his role as understanding how a patient died, and telling their story with accuracy, dignity, and compassion, a responsibility that extends far beyond the autopsy table. It may mean guiding grieving families through difficult moments, supporting law enforcement and the justice system in pursuit of accountability, or partnering with public health and safety champions to prevent future tragedies.

Here, Dr. Brown shares his thoughts on challenges in forensic pathology, lessons learned, and the impact he hopes to make. An impact which, he says, “lies in transforming loss into healing, accountability, and future change to improve the lives of those in the communities we get to serve.”

What are some of the biggest challenges you face in your field, particularly when it comes to supporting patient care?

Our greatest challenge is the critical shortage of forensic pathologists – only about 800 full-time forensic pathologists are practicing in the United States, far below what is needed to meet the rising demand for timely, high-quality medicolegal death investigations.

But with every challenge comes opportunity. Across the country, we are working to build interest in forensic pathology early and creating stronger pipelines through mentorship and training. At ASCP and in Arkansas, we have developed programs and created experiences that immerse learners in forensic pathology, public health, public safety, and public service.

I am especially proud of our new forensic pathology fellowship program in Arkansas. Our first fellow, Dr. Lance Truong, recently described our daily case conferences as “the art of forensic pathology.” That moment reminded me that what we are building is not just a training program – it is a future for the field, and better care for every patient and community we serve.

What are some of the lessons you’ve learned through the different volunteer roles you’ve taken on, in or out of ASCP?

The most valuable lesson I have learned is the power of showing up. Being present, listening with intention, and staying open to new perspectives have made me a stronger physician, mentor, and leader. 

I have had the privilege of working alongside champions who lead through service. One of them is Dr. Kamran Mirza, whose encouragement helped me find my voice in new and meaningful ways. His example inspired me to write the op-ed, “A Critical Shortage: Forensic Pathology Is Primary Care Medicine” – something I may never have done without his support. That experience reminded me that leadership is also about lifting others so they can become their best.

Whether it is a conversation in a hallway, a quiet moment checking in with a colleague, or a spark during a conference with another attendee, I have found that these brief and meaningful interactions often create the biggest impact. I hope that by showing up for others, I have helped them feel supported and empowered, just as so many have done for me. 

What impact do you hope to make through your work in this field?

I recently read Unshakeable: Building a Life of Virtue in a World of Chaos by Father Mike Schmitz, and one message deeply resonated with me: Live your life for your eulogy, not your résumé.

That is how I try to approach everything I do. Whether I am performing an autopsy, mentoring a learner, empowering a team member, serving on a review team, or contributing to a policy discussion, I aim to lead with humility, empathy, and a heart for service. My impact, I hope, will be measured by the lives I have positively influenced – grieving families who received answers, team members and learners who felt like they belonged, and communities made safer, stronger, and healthier through support, collaboration, and advocacy.

I have learned from the Arkansas Secretary of Public Safety and Director of Arkansas State Police, Colonel Mike Hagar, that, especially when the stakes are highest, our calling to serve those who need us most is to “find a way to yes.” That mindset – saying yes to those who entrust us with their care – is the spirit I strive to carry forward every day.