How do you amend the cause of death on a death certificate?

[no_hypocrisy]

A woman I know died as a result of hospital error and they put down she died of cancer. Fact of the matter is she didn't have cancer nor did they do any tests to prove she had cancer.

I know you can change spelling of a name or an initial. What do you do for something that has legal ramifications like cause of death?

Thank you in advance for any advice.

n_h

[jeff47]

1. It's a state document, so what you can do will depend on state law.

You're gonna have to find a lawyer in the relevant state to get a proper answer for this.

[cbayer]

2. Has there been a successful lawsuit showing that it was a medical error?

If so, you can probably have it changed. If not, you really have no basis to have it changed.

Was there an autopsy? It's hard to believe that they just made up the cancer.

[xxqqqzme]

3. autopsy requested?

In many states if the deceased was under a Dr's care or hospitalized, no autopsy is done. The family has to request and pay for one.

[laconicsax]

4. Consult an attorney.

They'll be able to let you know what your options are.

[hlthe2b]

5. Was an autopsy performed? If so, then the medical examiner/coroner should make the correction.

If not, then you probably are going to have to engage an attorney, but you could start by inquiring of the Dept. of Vital Records in your state.

[sinkingfeeling]

6. You'd probably have to exhume the body and pay for a private autopsy.