Barriers to human remains identification using forensic odontology in resource-constrained settings

Abstract

An effective strategy for human remains identification with a high success rate and low cost is vital for low to low-middle-income countries. Prompt identification of human remains is essential for the swift recovery of families and communities affected by large-scale disasters. However, the systematic integration of forensic disciplines into standard practice remains to be implemented in many areas. Even countries like the Philippines – where over 20 typhoons occur annually, leaving numerous, even thousands of persons remain missing so many years after the disaster, institutions continue to struggle in adopting standard protocols for human remains identification (HRI). This paper examines the barriers to implementing such protocols and explores the feasibility of maximizing the use of forensic odontology in the identification process in resource-constrained settings. The discussion highlights the situation in the Philippines resulting from these barriers and provides actionable plans for overcoming these challenges. In doing this, we can maximize the use of available technologies such as forensic odontology when local resources are limited, trained professionals are scarce and a sustainable and efficient operational local framework to handle mass fatality incidents (MFI) is not in place.

Keywords

• Forensic odontology
• Dentistry
• Human identification
• Disaster victim identification
• Resource-constrained
• Philippine forensic science