Death in Hospital or Care Home in Scotland

What to do after a death in hospital or care home in Scotland — collecting the death certificate, organ donation decisions, funeral arrangements, and immediate next steps.

1. The hospital will issue the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death. Staff will explain when and where to collect this document. In Scotland, the MCCD is Form 11.
2. If organ donation was registered or wished, staff will guide you. In Scotland, the law is opt-out (deemed authorisation) — unless they expressed a wish to opt out. Time-sensitive decisions about organ or tissue donation may be discussed.
3. You can usually take a few hours before the body is moved. Ask the ward if you would like private time with your loved one.
4. Contact a funeral director to arrange collection. The hospital can keep the body temporarily if you need more time.
5. Collect personal belongings and any valuables. Hospital staff will provide a list and ask you to sign for items.