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NEWS: Clare Dyer Shipman inquiry calls for major changes in death certification BMJ 2002; 325: 919 [Full text]

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practical &rapid response in completion of cremation certificate C.

denis d. hilton   (26 October 2002)

practical &rapid response in completion of cremation certificate C. 26 October 2002
denis d. hilton, p/t medical referee portchester crematorium PO16 8NE Send response to journal: Re: practical &rapid response in completion of cremation certificate C.	Unfortunately the changes either in the medical forms for cremation,or as proposed in the Dame Janet Smith inquiry,are likely to to take a long time. May I suggest that ,as a profession,we resolve to invite others to speak out about the circumstances surrounding each death by obtaining an affirmative answer to at least one of the Questions 5-8 on Form C? This requires no legislation,but some determination on the part of Medical Referees to be satisfied "...that there exists no reason for any further inquiry or examination."as required on Form F. This has been our practice locally for about 33 years with only Consultant Pathologists excused that inquiry in view of their experience(but that might benefit from review unless they have carried out a post mortem). Newcomers to the District usually need this drawn to their attention. For relatives and others to speak out about any questions which they may have requires some courage and initiative . It is very different if their opinions are actively sought.