Why do GPs charge for cremation forms?
A deceased person cannot be cremated until the cause of death has been ascertained and properly recorded. The BMA website sets out the procedure: “Before cremation can take place two certificates need to be signed, one by the GP and one by another doctor. Cremation Form 4 must be completed by the registered medical practitioner who attended the deceased during their last illness. Form 5 must be completed by a registered medical practitioner who is neither a partner nor a relative of the doctor who completed Form 4. A fee can be charged for the completion of both Forms 4 and 5 as this does not form part of a doctor’s NHS duties (1). Doctors normally charge these fees to the funeral director, who, generally passes on the cost to the family. Doctors are also entitled to charge a mileage allowance, where appropriate”.
Related Questions
- Does your office charge for filling out forms, school physicals, insurance forms, case management forms, disability forms, calling in medications, etc?
- Can physicians charge fees to complete paperwork and forms for patients (e.g., FMLA, disability, etc.)?
- Why does the Coroner charge a fee for a cremation release?
