INTRODUCTION

DEATH AND PAPERWORK

Death certificates combine two of life’s most serious and unavoidable activities: death and paperwork. The cause of death certifier is responsible for the most difficult part of the death certificate. The certifier is expected to report what diseases, injuries, or other conditions caused death. Additionally, this information is supposed to be reported in a format that identifies how the conditions related to each other and to the death. The certifier is asked to report the immediate cause of death, contributing conditions and, most importantly, the underlying cause of death.

Despite the complexity of this process, many people still refer to it as “signing the death certificate.” That’s a major understatement!

This instruction manual was prepared by the Arkansas Center for Health Statistics for physicians, coroners, hospice RNs, and other persons responsible for completing and signing the cause of death section of the Arkansas death certificate. It should also be useful to others involved in the completion and processing of the death certificate and those who want to know more about the source of cause of death data.

The Health Department’s Vision Statement says, “We use data-based knowledge to make informed decisions.” These decisions impact the future health of Arkansans. Cause of death information reported on death certificates is an important part of this decision-making process. Your participation in the collection of this information is essential and appreciated.

For questions not covered in this manual, contact Dorene Harris or refer to the supplemental reference materials listed under CONTACTS AND ADDITIONAL REPORTING REFERENCES.