Certifier: Who Signs the Medical Section of a Death Certificate
The certifier is the person who completes and signs the medical portion of a death certificate. The CDC says the certifier is usually a physician and attests to the causes of death listed on the certificate.
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What the certifier does
According to the CDC's handbook for funeral directors, the certifier completes the medical items, which cover pronouncement, cause of death, autopsy, manner of death and injury details. The funeral director does not complete these items. The attending physician or hospital usually handles this, and a medical examiner or coroner may complete it in some jurisdictions. The CDC's coding manual confirms that the certifier may be a physician, coroner or medical examiner.
Certifier versus informant
The certifier handles the medical facts. The informant, usually a family member, supplies the personal details.
When a medical examiner or coroner certifies
The CDC says deaths involving accident, suicide or homicide must be referred to a medical examiner or coroner, who completes the death certificate for those cases.
Frequently asked questions
Is the certifier the same as the funeral director?
No. The funeral director files the certificate. The certifier completes the medical section.
Can a family member be the certifier?
No. The certifier is a physician, medical examiner or coroner, according to the CDC.
What if the cause of death needs correcting?
The state registrar may amend the record if errors are found. Contact the vital records office for its process.
Sources
US Records is a private company and is not a government agency. Government agencies issue certified records; we help you order them.
Written By
US Records TeamThe US Records Team writes and reviews guides on birth, death, marriage and divorce certificates, using state statutes, agency instructions and court records as sources.
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