Losing someone close to you is deeply difficult. This page explains what happens next, including the new national process involving Medical Examiners.

What happens when someone dies

When a person dies, one of the first steps for the next of kin or representative is to obtain a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD).

Depending on the circumstances, the death will either:

• be certified by a doctor (GP, hospital doctor or hospice doctor), or
• be referred to the Coroner if the death was unexpected, unexplained or unclear.

New national process (from 9 September 2024)

A new law requires all deaths in England and Wales to be independently reviewed by either:

• a Medical Examiner, or
• a Coroner,

before the death can be registered.

What is a Medical Examiner?

A Medical Examiner (ME) is an experienced NHS doctor—trained to review deaths independently and help support bereaved families.

Their role includes:

• Reviewing the proposed cause of death
• Checking the deceased’s medical records
• Speaking with the bereaved family
• Ensuring the death is explained clearly
• Identifying any concerns that may need further review

How the new process works

For community deaths (those occurring outside hospital):

1. The GP refers the death to the Medical Examiner’s Office, unless it is a clear Coroner referral.
2. The Medical Examiner reviews the medical records.
3. They contact the GP to confirm the proposed cause of death.
4. The GP completes the MCCD (death certificate) if appropriate.
5. The MCCD is sent back to the Medical Examiner.
6. The Medical Examiner approves it and forwards it to the Registrar.
7. The Medical Examiner (or their officer) contacts the next of kin to explain the process, answer questions and listen to any concerns.

This additional review is designed to provide reassurance and transparency.
Although the aim is to avoid delays, death registration may occasionally take longer than the usual 5 working days due to the extra step.

Talking with the Medical Examiner

As part of the process, you will be offered a conversation with a Medical Examiner or Medical Examiner Officer.

This gives you the opportunity to:

• Understand what has been written on the death certificate
• Ask questions or request clearer explanations
• Raise any concerns about the care your loved one received
• Provide feedback to help improve NHS services

If the Medical Examiner identifies concerns, they may request further review or refer the case to the appropriate team.

Important information for bereaved families

• You do not need to do anything differently under the new system.
• The Medical Examiner’s Office will contact you directly.
• You cannot register the death until the Medical Examiner has completed their review and sent the MCCD to the Registrar.
• In some cases, this process may take longer than 5 days, especially if more information or further review is needed.

Checklist: What to Do When Someone Dies

1. A doctor confirms the death
This may be a GP, hospital doctor, hospice doctor or paramedic.

2. The death is reviewed
Every death must be reviewed by either:
1) the Medical Examiner, or
2) the Coroner (if the death was unexpected or unclear)

The Medical Examiner’s Office will contact you directly if needed.

3. The Medical Examiner speaks with the family
They will:
1) explain the cause of death
2) answer questions
3) listen to any concerns

You do not need to request this — they will contact you.

4. The Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) is completed
The GP completes the certificate once the Medical Examiner has completed their review.

The Medical Examiner then sends the MCCD directly to the Registrar.

5. Register the death
You will be contacted when the MCCD has been received by the Registrar.
You cannot register the death until this step is complete.

6. Arrange the funeral
You can contact a funeral director at any time, but most will need:
1) the name of the deceased
2) the date of death
confirmation that the death has been or will be certified

7. Get support if you need it
Losing a loved one is emotionally difficult. You can access support through:
Cruse Bereavement Support
The GP practice (if you’re struggling or need guidance)