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Death and Cremation Certification

The Law Commission published an Issues Paper on 23 May 'Final Words: Death and Cremation Certification in New Zealand' examining the strengths and weaknesses of the Death and Cremation systems. GPs involved in certifying deaths play a vital role in the system.

Deputy Law Commissioner Warren Young and Senior Advisor Cate Brett attended the College's Professional Practice Expert Advisory Group meeting last week to discuss this issue. This discussion was very valuable and helped inform the College's policy submission on the review.

The group enjoyed an energetic discussion and put forward the College's views on the key issues for GPs.  The group told the Law Commission how GPs employ their skills, competencies and in particular their knowledge of the deceased's medical history to make an informed decision on cause of death.  Everyone agreed that it is very important to have a robust, safe system but in providing this it must made the best use of GPs' skills and knowledge without overburdening the already-stretched workforce.

View the College's submission to the Law Commission 'Death Certification and Cremation in New Zealand'

The College Policy team welcomes members input on consultations.  Hearing from members means our policy work and submissions target the issues that concern our members the most. 

Click here to view the current consultations we are seeking feedback on.