IMPORTANT NEWS

Important Information regarding the issuing of Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) by the GP

*Medical Examiners and Reforms to Death Certification*

With effect from Monday 9th September 2024, the statutory Medical Examiner System will be in place for all deaths at home or in a hospital across the UK, Scotland, and Wales.

Who is a medical examiner?

Under the medical examiner’s regulations, medical examiners provide independent scrutiny of causes of death and will be a contact for bereaved people who wish to ask questions or raise concerns.

The purpose of the medical examiner system is to:

Provide greater safeguards for the public by ensuring independent scrutiny of all non-coronial deaths

•       Ensure the appropriate direction of death to the coroner
•       Provide a better service for the bereaved and an opportunity for them to raise any concerns to a doctor not involved in the care of the deceased
•       Improve the quality of death certification
•       Improve the quality of mortality data

What does this mean for you?

The changes in the death certification process are a positive step forward overall, but they will add an extra layer to the process. 

“It’s important to note that while this procedure has already been in place for hospital deaths over the last year, it will be extended and will be made a legal requirement for all deaths, whether they occur at a hospital or at home. This change could potentially impact community expectations regarding the timing of burials, as quick burials, which have been common in the past, may no longer be feasible.”

During this challenging period, please be patient and collaborate with your local Funeral Director, who is available to assist and guide you through the necessary formalities.

Please see the table attached below.