The International Association of Coroners and Medical Examiners announced last month that the Baldwin County Coroner’s Office has earned accreditation with the organization.

The coroner’s office self-submitted to the accreditation process to ensure that operating policies, procedures and practices at the department are within international guidelines.

Baldwin County Coroner Brian Pierce and his staff were subjected to a review of 288 standards including administrative, forensic, investigative and facility review.

The IACME requires 100 percent compliance of mandatory standards and 90 percent of all applicable standards.

The IACME extended its compliments to Baldwin County for submitting to the review.

“The accreditation auditors made it clear the Baldwin County Coroner’s Office makes every effort to provide the highest level of service to the citizens, neighbors and visitors of Baldwin County. This is accomplished by a dedicated team of well-trained investigators through timely and compassionate investigations of deaths occurring in their jurisdiction. They strive to maintain a mutually beneficial relationship with local law enforcement as well as with local EMS providers. Baldwin County Coroner’s Office also takes advantage of every opportunity to educate and to build trust within their medical community and they are the voice of those who can no longer speak for themselves,” said John Fudenberg, IACME executive director, in a letter.

“When an agency elects to subject themselves to this process it clearly indicates their desire to stand to peer review and demonstrates to the public and stakeholders a strong desire to provide excellence in service provision” he wrote.

The accreditation must be renewed every five years.