What you need to know in times of bereavement

If death occurs at home
When death takes place at home there is usually a kind friend, neighbour or relative able to attend duties in the sick room.

Inform the doctor
As soon as possible inform the doctor that the death has occurred. They may write out the Medical Certificate of Death when they visit the house, or may request you attend the surgery for this purpose.

When the death occurs in hospital
When death happens in hospital the procedure is very similar. Apply to the hospital for the Medical Certificate of Death and not your family doctor.

The Coroner
In cases where the death has been reported to the Coroner the procedure is somewhat different. The Coroner and his officers are working in your interest. No doctor will issue the Medical Certificate of Death. This will be sent by the Coroner to the Registrar's Office in the district where the death occurred, after contact has been made to the Coroner's office.