Bereavement Information 25 South Eastern Sydney Local Health District A death at home When a person dies at home, and the death is expected and support is being provided by the community palliative care team, it is not necessary to call emergency services. The community palliative care team will discuss the process ahead of time and advise you on what to do. Key Points to consider It can be helpful to choose a funeral provider in advance, even if you are not yet ready to plan the funeral itself. Selecting a company, you feel comfortable with and keeping their contact details readily available can ease decision-making during a difficult time. When a person dies, a doctor usually their general practitioner (GP) will need to complete a ‘Medical Certificate of Cause of Death’. It is important that the GP has seen the person recently, typically within the weeks leading up to their death. If the GP is unavailable to attend the home, a nurse, paramedic, or another qualified medical professional can issue a ‘Verification of Death’ as an interim measure. You may wish to speak with your community nurse or GP in advance to discuss and prepare for this process. Once either the ‘Medical Certificate of Cause of Death’ or a ‘Verification of Death’ has been issued, you can contact the funeral provider to arrange for the person to be taken into their care. There is no need to rush this step. If you or your family would like some time at home for farewells, it is completely acceptable to proceed at your own pace. You can inform the funeral provider of your wishes and ask them to delay their arrival until you feel ready.
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