- English law does not require a doctor to confirm death has occurred or that “life is extinct” – guidance has been produced by the BMA to support untrained individuals in assisting in the verification of life extinct and it remains open to a doctor to attend if in all the circumstances of the case they felt it was reasonable, appropriate and safe to do so.
- Covid-19 is an acceptable direct or underlying cause of death for the purposes of completing the Medical Certificate for Cause of Death (MCCD).
- There are significant changes to the requirements on us regarding death and cremation certification.
For more information, please see our helpful and important guide on processes concerning the death of a patient.