Funeral Planning 101

When a death occurs, the next steps in the process are often eclipsed because of the emotional impact. The following information offers guidance on what to do in specific death scenarios. If the funeral home is known, contact them as they will be a resource for you. Your selected funeral home will coordinate with all involved parties to transfer your loved one from the place of death to their facility. Transporting is one of the many services that funeral homes offer the families they serve.

Death in a medical facility

The majority of deaths occur in a medical facility (hospital, nursing home, hospice). At the time, the staff will ask for the family’s selected funeral home; and you will be directed to contact the funeral home, or the staff will call them on your behalf. The funeral director should speak to a family member to obtain permission to transport the deceased to their facility.

Death at home

If a patient dies at home and is under hospice care, the first step is to contact the hospice team to inform them of the death. The hospice staff will initiate the process of pronouncing the death and making arrangements with your selected funeral home to take your loved one into their care.

When a patient dies at home (not under the supervision of hospice), first call 9-1-1 or your local law enforcement for assistance. Your police/sheriff will dispatch assistance to the location immediately. First responders will provide the necessary guidance during this acute situation.

There are times when the Medical Examiner or Coroner may be alerted to the death. Depending on the ME/Coroner involvement, the deceased may be transported to a post-mortem examination facility. The ME/Coroner is responsible for the certification of the death and deceased until their examination or investigation is complete. Most ME/Coroner will communicate with the family and update the selected funeral home upon the conclusion of the inquiry.