What actions is the Cabinet Secretary directing health boards to undertake to reduce delays in issuing death certificates following the introduction of the new medical examiner process in September 2024?
Since the implementation of death certification reform in England and Wales in September 2024, my officials have been working closely with UK Government, the NHS in Wales and stakeholders to monitor the impact of these changes.
In February, the Welsh Government convened a Strategic Oversight Group, which includes representatives from the health boards and the Medical Examiner Service to review the death certification process, identify and address delays in the system.
The Deputy Chief Medical Officer wrote to all medical directors to review current processes to identify areas for improvement, including the provision of training, revision of protocols and to facilitate certification seven days a week.
ONS data shows the median time from death to registration of a death is reducing in Wales. My officials continue to monitor the situation.