The Medical Examiner Service has been introduced in England and Wales to increase understanding and peace of mind for families, as well as to improve learning and patient safety by providing a review of care.
Following the death of your relative/friend, the doctor who is completing the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death will discuss this with the Medical Examiner.
The Medical Examiner is an independent senior doctor who will review the relevant medical records to confirm the cause of death and ensure that care was provided appropriately. They will direct the doctor to refer to the Coroner if further investigations are required.
Once the paperwork has been completed, you will receive a call from the Medical Examiner’s Office (based at either University Hospitals of Derby and Burton or Chesterfield Royal Hospital) to explain the details on the certificate. During this call, you will be given the chance to discuss any concerns about the cause of death, or about the care the person received before their death. The Medical Examiner Officers can explain any medical language unfamiliar to you if this is needed. They will inform you that the relevant paperwork will be at the register office and following this call, you will be able to make an appointment to register the death formally.
If there are any concerns that need to be escalated following this discussion, this can be done by the Medical Examiner Officer, or they will provide you with the relevant contact details.