New independent senior doctors review of death certification starts next week

The government has confirmed all deaths in any health setting that are not investigated by a coroner will be reviewed by an independent senior doctor, known as a Medical Examiner.

In changes due to come into force next week, this will form part of the death certification reforms with the introduction of a new statutory medical examiner system.

From Monday, September 9, 2024, healthcare providers and family GPs will be required to share records of deceased patients with medical examiner offices.

Here in Blackburn with Darwen, the Medical Examiners will be based at Royal Blackburn Hospital and available at weekends and Bank Holidays during certain hours to certify death certificates.

The new reforms are designed to:

• Improve the accuracy of death certification, ensuring consistency and transparency across all cases
• Allow an efficient flow of information between medical practitioners, medical examiners, coroners and registrars
• Provide support and answers to bereaved families to ask questions and voice concerns about the care their loved ones received
• Strengthen the detection of patterns or trends in deaths that might require further investigation or preventative measures
• Improve the quality of data used to inform public health and policy decisions

Regulations introducing changes to the death certification process were laid before Parliament on 15 April 2024. Under the new regulations, medical certificates of cause of death (MCCD) will be used by attending doctors and checked independently by Medical Examiners before the death can be registered by Registrars

The changes are part of a broader set of reforms to death certification, coroner and registration processes.

Cllr Mahfooz Hussain, Blackburn with Darwen Council’s Executive Member for Digital and Customer Services, said:

This new process is designed to offer greater transparency and support for bereaved families in our communities when they are dealing with the most difficult times.

It will provide opportunities to raise questions or concerns with a senior doctor not directly involved in the care of their loved ones. Providing another layer of scrutiny will also help to identify and learn from issues in healthcare delivery and other circumstances surrounding deaths.

Cllr Hussain added:

As your local Council, with responsibility for the registration of deaths, we are committed to supporting the successful implementation of these changes.

We are working closely with Medical Examiners, healthcare providers and the wider community to ensure this new system is responsive, effective and compassionate.

Please be aware that the Council’s website has been updated with further details and contact information for anybody who may have further questions.

Locally, you find out more information on the Council’s website and more information is also available here: NHS England » The national medical examiner system