Understanding the Death Certification Review Process
By Chris Simpson - 22/02/2025 -
READ TIME: 4 Minutes
Introduction
When a loved one passes away, handling the necessary paperwork can feel overwhelming. In Scotland, the Death Certification Review Service (DCRS) plays an essential role in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of medical certificates of cause of death.
At Parkgrove Funeral Directors, we understand that this process may raise questions or concerns. This guide explains everything you need to know in a clear and reassuring way—helping you navigate the process with confidence and ease.
What is the Death Certification Review Service (DCRS)?
The Death Certification Review Service (DCRS) is part of Healthcare Improvement Scotland. It was introduced to ensure that Medical Certificates of Cause of Death (MCCDs) are completed accurately.
This process:
Improves the quality of death records
Helps with public health monitoring
Ensures that medical professionals are consistently providing accurate information
The Death Registration Process in Scotland
When someone passes away, a doctor issues a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD)
Steps to Register a Death in Scotland:
1️⃣ Obtain the MCCD from the attending doctor. In Tayside, the hospital or GP will send this to the registrars office.
2️⃣ In Angus, book an appointment online with the registrar.
3️⃣ The registrar completes the registration and issues a Certificate of Registration of Death (Form 14)
4️⃣ The funeral can proceed once Form 14 is issued
For full details on death registration, visit the National Records of Scotland website.
How Does the Death Certification Review Process Work?
Approximately 1 in 8 MCCDs are randomly selected for review by DCRS.
Two Types of Review:
Level 1 Review: Completed within 24 hours
Level 2 Review: A more detailed check, which may take up to 3 days
Possible Outcomes of a Review:
✔️ No changes needed – Form 14 is issued as normal
✔️ Minor amendments required – The registrar informs the family
✔️ A replacement MCCD is needed – The doctor provides an updated certificate
The review process ensures accuracy and quality control but does not question the doctor’s medical expertise.
Will the Review Delay Funeral Arrangements?
If a death is selected for review, you can still start planning the funeral. However, the funeral cannot take place until the review is complete and the registrar has issued Form 14.
💡 Good to know: The registrar will inform you as soon as the review is completed, so there’s no need to check constantly.
Advance Registration – Can a Funeral Happen Before the Review is Complete?
In certain circumstances, an Advance Registration allows a funeral to proceed before the review is finished.
Situations Where Advance Registration May Be Granted:
🔹 Religious or cultural reasons (e.g., faith-based burial requirements)
🔹 Compassionate reasons (to prevent unnecessary distress)
🔹 Practical reasons (e.g., family members have traveled from abroad)
🕒 Decision time: DCRS usually responds within 2 hours to advance registration requests.
The registrar will help you apply, and if approved, the review will still take place later. If any changes are required to the MCCD, the registrar will issue a corrected version.
When is a Death Not Reviewed by DCRS?
Some deaths are not reviewed by DCRS, particularly if they have been reported to the Procurator Fiscal.
🔍 The Procurator Fiscal investigates deaths in cases such as:
✅ Unexplained or suspicious deaths
✅ Workplace or medical-related deaths
✅ Deaths where a post-mortem is required
For more information, visit the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service.
Key Takeaways for Families
✔️ 1 in 8 deaths are reviewed – a routine and quality-checking process
✔️ The review is completed quickly (Level 1: 24 hours, Level 2: 3 days)
✔️ Funeral planning can begin immediately, but Form 14 is required for burial or cremation
✔️ Advance Registration may be possible for urgent cases
At Parkgrove Funeral Directors, we support families through this process, ensuring that everything runs smoothly.
Final Thoughts
While the Death Certification Review Process might sound daunting, it is designed to ensure accuracy and uphold high standards in Scotland’s death registration system.
At Parkgrove Funeral Directors, we understand that this can be a stressful time. Our team is here to offer guidance, liaise with the registrar, and help you focus on what truly matters—remembering your loved one.
💬 Need help navigating the process? Contact us today, and let us support you every step of the way.
FAQs
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No, the process is random, and 1 in 8 MCCDs are selected automatically.
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The registrar will inform you when you go to register the death.
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The registrar will notify you of any required changes, and a replacement certificate may be issued.
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Yes! You can plan everything, but the funeral cannot take place until the review is complete.
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You can apply for Advance Registration, and if approved, the funeral can proceed before the review is finished.