We would like to update you on the changes in death certification that have come into effect on the 9th September. This is a legal requirement and may affect the speed of getting your loved one’s death certification.
Previously when an expected death occurred, we as doctors at the practice issued a Medical certificate for cause of death. This was then passed to the relatives to register the death. If there were any serious concerns, or we were not sure, we would contact the coroner.
The new system involves a different group of doctors called medical examiners. This is a group of doctors who are not associated with the practice, but have access to the deceased medical records. The GP will propose a Medical certificate for cause of death and this will be authorised by the Medical Examiner. The Medical Examiner will then pass this onto the registrar.
The key changes is the time. Whereas before, we did our best provide Medical certificate for cause of death by then end of the next working day. The anticipated new process may take up to five working days. The other change is that the medical examiner will move on the death certificate and not the relative.
The medical examiners office is there to try and improve care and ensure that lessons can be identified. They may get in contact with family members to ensure that you have been listened to too and nothing is missed.
We at Kingsway Medical Practice have been working closely with the medical examiners for the past year to ensure that the systems behind the scenes work. If for religious reasons you need the Medical certificate for cause of death, then please let the practice know as soon as the patient dies.
In summary, for any death that is expected, we will be contacting the medical examiner.
The medical examiner may contact you as a relative.
The Medical certificate for cause of death will be signed by two clinicians, one in practice and the medical examiner and this is passed onto the registry office.
The whole process may take up to 5 working days.
