Certifying A Death in Vermont
This tutorial will guide you through the information required to be completed by a physician when certifying a death in Vermont.
Also included is information about
- various scenarios with a cause of death and discussion
- reportable cases
- how to report a case
- common mistakes
- quick tips
- Registering to use Vermont Electronic Death Registration System
Accurately certifying a death in a timely manner is crucial because the cause-of-death information provided by YOU, the certifying physician, is the basis of local, state, and national mortality data. The National Center for Health Statistics maintains the data, which is used in various public health decision and policies in research funding.
More importantly it provides information to family and others (insurance agents, banks, lawyers, physicians, and researchers) who use death certificate information. Medical certification is also required for the funeral director or family to obtain permits prior to final disposition.
It is the responsibility of the Certifying Physician to provide as accurate information as possible, which often requires review of medical records.