A new statutory Medical Examiner system is being rolled out across England and Wales to provide independent scrutiny of deaths.
From 9th September 2024 all deaths, in any health setting, that are not investigated by the Coroner will be reviewed by a Medical Examiner.
The new system will take the following steps:
- An appropriate doctor will complete a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) and this will be forwarded to the Medical Examiner (ME) electronically.
- The ME will examine the documents and cause of death and also contact the next of kin/executor to discuss and answer any questions that may arise.
- When the ME is satisfied they will forward the MCCD to the Registrar, who will then contact the qualified informant to make an appointment to register the death.
- Upon registration the Registrar will issue the certificate required by the Funeral Director to enable the funeral to take place.
- The rules regarding qualified persons (informant) able to register and the information needed by the Registrar have not changed.
It is likely that the new system may extend the period between the death occurring and being able to carry out registration.
Should you need any advice or have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us.
