§ 679. Training requirements for coroners and coroner's deputies. Each coroner and coroner's deputy, whether elected or appointed pursuant to section four hundred of this chapter, shall attend and successfully complete state-approved courses in medical-legal investigation. The cost of such courses shall be the responsibility of the coroner or coroner's deputy, provided however that the county may, at its discretion, reimburse the coroner or coroner's deputy for all or a portion of the cost of such courses. Such courses shall be prescribed, certified and accredited pursuant to rules promulgated by the department of health, in consultation with the department of state, the division of criminal justice services, the superintendent of state police, the commissioner of education, and the chair of the commission on forensic science. The department of health may also consult with qualified professional groups. Such rules shall also establish the frequency and duration for successful completion of any such courses by a coroner or coroner's deputy and may prescribe heightened levels of training for any newly elected or appointed coroner or coroner's deputy.