When someone dies in hospital, many of the immediate steps are handled by hospital staff. This guide explains what usually happens and how families are supported through the process.
What the hospital will do
Hospital staff will:
- Confirm the death
- Arrange for a doctor to certify the death
- Provide guidance on what happens next
They will also give you time and space before discussing practical arrangements.
Bringing your loved one into care
Once you are ready, a funeral director can be contacted to arrange the transfer of your loved one into professional care.
If the deceased had pre‑arranged funeral plans, these may indicate the chosen funeral director.
Each hospital has different process depending on whether they have an onsite mortuary. The nominated funeral home can only collect the deceased when the signed authority from the applicant to release the deceased to the care of the funeral home, plus the paperwork from the hospital is available. Some hospitals without a mortuary outsource this service, so we always recommend an authority to collect for your preferred funeral director if completed prior to death (if known) to avoid this added step and potential delays.
What you may be asked
Hospital staff may ask:
- Who the Next of Kin is
- Whether a funeral director has been chosen
- If there are any cultural or religious considerations
If you are unsure, you can take time to consider your options.
Support when you need it
Support is available at every stage:
- H. Parsons Funeral Directors — 4228 9622
- Your family GP
- 24/7 counselling services such as Lifeline (131 114) and Beyond Blue (1300 224 636)
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