The Significance of the Cause of Death Statement

  USES OF THE CAUSE OF DEATH STATEMENT
 

Some think of the cause of death statement only in terms of its providing documentation and closure for the family of the decedent, giving them needed explanations regarding the causes of the death.  However, the cause of death information on death certificates actually plays another important role as the source of data about the national health.  Cause of death statements are used by government and other agencies for a variety of important purposes:  to monitor public rates of morbidity and mortality for scientific study and/or research for health policy planning to implement and monitor public health strategies as a basis for legislative changes for public health funding prioritization THEREFORE:  It is very important that the cause of death information be as accurate and complete as possible.

 
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Last Revised: 5/2/99