Statutory medical examiner system
The implementation of a new medical examiner system is currently underway in England and Wales, set to become a legally mandated practice from 9 September 2024. In the regions of mid and south Essex, general practitioner (GP) practices will gradually adopt this system within the coming months. By its essence, the medical examiner system aims to offer impartial oversight for all non-coroner referred deaths.
The diligent scrutiny of medical documents by forensic pathologists in collaboration with physicians culminates in the meticulous formulation of a medical certificate of the underlying cause of death, more commonly referred to as medical certificate of the cause of death (MCCD).
These professionals engage in meaningful conversations with bereaved families to gain insight into the quality of healthcare received, subsequently engaging in fruitful discussions to reach a mutual consensus on the aforementioned medical certificate. It is imperative that this document be finalised prior to the registration of the death and the subsequent release of the deceased’s remains to their grieving loved ones.
You can read more information about the medical examiner service and the medical certification of the cause of death here by visiting this link.
What these changes will mean
When the GP practice is notified of a death, information will need to be obtained to enable a GP to refer the death to the medical examiner office (or where appropriate to the coroner).
Information that will be required:
- Date/time and location of death.
- Occupation of the deceased (or last occupation if retired/not working at time of death)
- Next of kin details (name, relationship, contact details
These details will be passed to the relevant GP who can complete the MCCD. The GP will complete a referral form to the medical examiner officer indicating how they intend to complete the MCCD.
The medical examiner will then carry out an independent review of the person’s death. They will also have a discussion with the next of kin to establish whether they have any concerns and offer an opportunity to ask any questions relating to the cause of death or care/treatment.
The medical examiner will then contact the GP:
- If they agree with cause of death, the MCCD will be issued by GP.
- If they advise of an alteration, this will be discussed with the GP before the GP issues a MCCD.
- They may advise a referral to the coroner for a specified reason.
You can find out more information about the medical examiners service on the Mid and South Essex Integrated Care System website by visiting this link.