Covid-19 Death Certification advice from the National Medical Examiner

March 1, 2020

Prior to more detailed guidance being released for the death certification process in an emergency scenario, please follow these recommendations:

• Covid-19 is an acceptable direct or underlying cause of death for the purposes ​of completing the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death
• Covid-19 is not a reason on its own to refer a death to a coroner under the Coroners and Justice Act 2009.
• That Covid-19 is a notifiable disease under the Health Protection (Notification) Regulations 2010 does not mean referral to a coroner is required by virtue of its notifiable status.
• Where next of kin/informant are following self-isolation procedures, please arrange for an alternative informant who has not been in contact with the patient to collect the Medical Certificate Cause of Death and deliver to the registrar for registration purposes.