The present system of death certification in England requires certification of the cause of death by a registered medical practitioner, to the best of their knowledge and belief.

Alternatively, the death must have been reported to the coroner and the appropriate certificate provided by them.

There is no legal requirement to have seen a deceased patient in the 28 days before or at any time after death.

However, if a deceased patient has not been seen in the 28 days before or at any time after death, the registrar will automatically refer this to the coroner.

Therefore, it is advised that the doctor completing an MCCD (medical certificate of cause of death) should endeavor to see a patient within 28 days before their death.