Doctors are being reminded by the Medical Defence Union (MDU) about new rules governing death certification, which take effect from today in England and Wales. The changes mean a wider pool of doctors will be able to certify deaths, reducing delays in death certificates being issued.
All deaths will now be subject to scrutiny either by a medical examiner, or by a coroner, including deaths in the community. The aim is to improve the experience of bereaved people allowing them to ask questions and raise any concerns.
The MDU regularly supports doctors when their patients raise complaints or queries about death certificates. Over the past five years, nearly 200 cases have been opened, with the majority being raised by GPs and primary care staff.
Dr Udvitha Nandasoma, head of advisory services at the MDU, said:
"Doctors play a vital role in certifying deaths and issuing death certificates. It’s important they are aware of the changes to the rules and that they complete the new medical certificate of cause of death (MCCD) accurately.
"We do see complaints alleging inaccuracies in death certificates or that there was an undue delay in issuing a certificate. We hope the new system will help to avoid such complaints.
"One major change is that any doctor who attended the deceased during their lifetime will be able to complete the MCCD. Before, this was restricted to those doctors who had attended the patient during their last illness.
"Doctors in England and Wales who are notified of a patient death will need to work closely with medical examiners to allow them to independently scrutinise deaths not referred to a coroner. This will include sharing records of deceased patients."
The MDU has produced guidance for doctors about the changes to the system. Members with queries about certifying deaths or the role of medical examiners can contact the MDU for further advice.
This page was correct at publication on 09/09/2024. Any guidance is intended as general guidance for members only. If you are a member and need specific advice relating to your own circumstances, please contact one of our advisers.