Perceptions of the autopsy: views from the lay public and program proposals.

The autopsy has historically served as a critical research and teaching tool in medicine as well as a means to ensure control over the quality of health care. In recent years, however, the autopsy has lost favor among the public and fallen into disuse within the medical community. This paper offers some insights into the reasons behind the decline of the autopsy as viewed by the lay public. Programs to help revitalize use of the autopsy are suggested.