School Lane SurgeryStarting Monday (9th September) a new statutory medical examiner system will be implemented across England and Wales. This system is designed to provide independent scrutiny of all deaths not referred to the coroner.
Under the new guidelines, when a patient passes away outside of a hospital setting, healthcare providers now have a legal duty to refer the case to the local Medical Examiner’s Office.
Medical examiners, based at West Suffolk Hospital, will carefully review medical records and work closely with the surgery to complete the Medical Certificate of the Cause of Death (MCCD), commonly known as the death certificate. They will also engage with the deceased’s family to discuss their experiences of care and ensure the MCCD is clear and agreed upon before it is finalised. Only once this process is complete can the death be officially registered and the body released to the family.
What These Changes Mean
When a patient passes away, the Medical Examiner Service will be notified by the GP completing the MCCD. The on-duty medical examiner will review the patient’s medical records, and either they or one of their officers will contact the next of kin for a routine telephone conversation.
This call will provide an opportunity for the family to discuss the care their loved one received, share any thoughts, and ask questions about the next steps. Medical Examiner Officers are available to guide families through the practicalities that follow a death, offering support and answering any questions regarding the process.
The medical examiner team is also there to listen to concerns, provide answers where possible, and, if necessary, escalate any issues for further investigation.
We understand that the loss of a loved one is an incredibly challenging time. If you have any concerns or need assistance, the Medical Examiner team is available to help.
You can reach them Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, at 01284 713647.
The service is designed to provide compassionate support and ensure clarity during this difficult period. Please do not hesitate to contact them if you need guidance or reassurance.
For further information on the medical examiner service and the certification process, please visit: West Suffolk Medical Examiners Service https://www.wsh.nhs.uk/Patients-and-visitors/Support-we-offer/Bereavement-support/Medical-examiners-service.aspx