True crime—both real and imagined—has become one of today's most-watched genres, captivating audiences with dramatic investigations and all-star “crime-stoppers.” But behind the on-screen intrigue lies a world that's often misunderstood, especially when it comes to the work of forensic pathologists.
We sat down with Gregory McDonald, DO '89, chair of the Department of Forensic Medicine and Pathology to debunk some of the common myths perpetuated by crime shows and learn more about the realities of being a forensic pathologist.
On television, forensic pathologists are focused on singular cases and often have a breakthrough moment to solve the crime before the credits roll. According to McDonald, forensic pathologists often juggle multiple cases at once—sometimes four or five at any given time. Each case demands hours of painstaking documentation, evidence review and collaboration with other specialists. The truth is, real-life investigations unfold at a pace measured in weeks or months, not minutes.
Most crime shows will show lab results come through by the next commercial break, when in reality, DNA testing and toxicology reports can take anywhere from six to eight weeks to return. A forensic pathologist must often wait patiently for these results before determining the cause of death. It's a process that requires not only medical expertise but also an understanding of how to synthesize incomplete data while waiting for the full picture to emerge.
Another popular misconception is that the forensic pathologist on TV is a one-person crime-solving machine—handling everything from blood spatter analysis, to interrogations and even courtroom strategy. Dr. McDonald emphasizes that while time on the job can give a wider breadth of experience, the primary role of a forensic pathologist is highly specialized: to determine the cause of death, (the medical reason someone died) and the manner of death (the circumstances surrounding that death—natural, accidental, homicidal, suicidal or undetermined). While they do often work with other parties during a case, their focus remains on understanding what happened to the body, not solving the crime in its entirety.
Forensic pathologists play a vital, often misunderstood role in our justice system. Their work demands precision, patience, and deep respect for both medicine and the law. They may not solve every mystery by the end of a 60-minute episode—but their real-life contributions bring clarity, accountability and closure to some of society's most difficult questions.
Learn more about PCOM's Master of Science in Forensic Medicine program, a 24-month, highly experiential graduate program that equips students with analytical, investigative and medico-legal skills to evaluate evidence, interpret forensic pathology and support justice system outcomes.
Established in 1899, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) has trained thousands of highly competent, caring physicians, health practitioners and behavioral scientists who practice a “whole person” approach to care—treating people, not just symptoms. PCOM, a private, not-for-profit accredited institution of higher education, operates three campuses (PCOM, PCOM Georgia and PCOM South Georgia) and offers doctoral degrees in clinical psychology, educational psychology, osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, physical therapy, and school psychology. The college also offers graduate degrees in applied behavior analysis, applied positive psychology, biomedical sciences, forensic medicine, medical laboratory science, mental health counseling, physician assistant studies, and school psychology. PCOM students learn the importance of health promotion, research, education and service to the community. Through its community-based Healthcare Centers, PCOM provides care to medically underserved populations. For more information, visit pcom.edu or call 215-871-6100.
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Gabrielle DePietro
Associate Director, News and Media Relations
Office of Marketing and Communications
Email: gabrielde2@pcom.edu
Office: 215-871-6304
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