Information for families about death certification

We would like to express our sincere condolences for your loss. We understand this is a very difficult time and we hope this information helps in explaining the process around the formalities in certifying a death.

The GP that last saw the patient or ‘treated them in their last illness’ before their passing must be the person that completes the death certificate and cremation form, if applicable. We will do our best to complete the necessary documentation as soon as possible, but on occasion there may be delays whilst we await the GP’s return to the practice.  Most of our GPs are not present at the practice everyday, and they may be away on annual leave.

We realise you may have been advised the death must be registered within 5 days, however due to the complexities as above, it often takes a little longer than this. Please do not worry, the Registrar’s office is aware that this can happen. The legislation states registration must be within 5 days of the Registrar becoming aware of the issue of the death certificate, so this extends the time.

The GP must liaise with the Medical Examiner to discuss and agree a cause of death; this has to be completed to enable the certificate to be written. The Medical Examiner also requires copies of the patient’s medical records in order to establish issues that contributed to their passing. On occasion, the GP will speak with the Coroner to consider whether a post mortem examination is needed. These conversations must occur by law before the certificate can be completed, and this process can unfortunately lead to further delays.

Once the cause of death is agreed, you will be notified by us (or the Medical Examiner or Coroner) that the documentation is complete. We will liaise with you in regard to funeral arrangements as the GP may need to visit to see the body in some cases.

The death certificate is then emailed by us to the Registrar’s office, and a copy is sent to the Medical Examiner or Coroner as necessary. Once this has been done, you can arrange an appointment to register the death – you can book online via register-a-death or call 0300 123 4045. You can make an appointment outside of opening hours using the online service, and at any office in Hertfordshire if the death occurred in the area – please do not make an appointment until the certificate has been completed and sent to the Registrar’s office. The cremation paperwork (if applicable) once completed, is emailed to the funeral director directly.

We hope this explains the process but if we can assist any further, please contact us.

Here are some useful links for further information:

East & North Herts NHS Trust Medical Examiner Information         

Patient Information leaflet for ME process

Cruse Bereavement Support

Home – Cruse

Hertfordshire Coroner Service

coroner-service