Confirmation and certification of death

The duty of a doctor to a patient continues after the death of that patient. All GPs should have a good working knowledge of the processes around confirmation and certification of death. These processes involve the completion of detailed, and sometimes unfamiliar, paperwork. Knowledge of the process can help avoid unnecessary errors that can cause distress to families at a difficult time. The coronial system has issued guidance, and understanding of this guidance can aid smooth multidisciplinary working, reduce pressure on GPs and help bereaved relatives.