A Medical Examiner is by definition a medical doctor. Medical Examiner is often an appointed position as opposed to an elected position and they perform duties such as autopsy examination, scene investigation and medical record review. In contrast to a Coroner, a Medical Examiner is expected to bring a medical level of expertise to the job. Forensic pathologists are often referred to as Medical Examiners in those "medical examiner" states such as in New Mexico.