Patient Experience
In the hospital's mortuary we provide an efficient and compassionate service that respects the dignity of deceased patients and their families. This is an important service that the hospital provides to patients who die while in our care. It is also central to supporting bereaved families at a very difficult time.
It is our policy to ensure that the deceased patient is released from the mortuary to the funeral director as soon as possible. This allows relatives to make the necessary funeral arrangements.
Before releasing the remains to a funeral director, the medical team caring for the deceased patient must give clearance for the release. Clearance means clarifying whether or not the deceased patient is to have a post-mortem examination (hospital or coroner directed). There are certain criteria under which a death is reportable to the coroner and following consultation with the medical team, the coroner decides whether or not to direct a post mortem examination.
The Mortuary building includes a chapel for removals to take place, a room for viewing of remains, a Chaplains Office and a family room and kitchenette for bereaved relatives.
The services provided include: