Who to Call When Someone Dies at Home
Navigating the Difficult Moments After a Home Death
When someone dies at home, it can be a distressing and confusing time. The first step is to call emergency services or the local authorities to report the death. They will assess the situation and determine if further action is needed. After that, it’s important to contact the deceased's healthcare provider or hospice service if they were under care. This guide will help you understand the necessary steps and provide clarity on who to call and what to expect during this challenging time.
Understanding the Immediate Steps
Experiencing a death at home can be overwhelming. The immediate actions you take are crucial for both legal and emotional reasons. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do:
- Call Emergency Services: Dial 911 or your local emergency number to report the death. This is essential even if the person was under hospice care.
- Notify the Healthcare Provider: If the deceased was under a doctor’s care, inform them as they may need to issue a death certificate.
- Contact Family Members: Notify close family and friends of the situation.
- Make Arrangements for the Body: Depending on local laws, you may need to contact a funeral home or a coroner.
Who to Call
Here’s a detailed list of who to contact when someone dies at home:
- Emergency Services: They will confirm the death and may assist with next steps.
- Healthcare Provider: For those under medical care, their doctor or hospice service should be notified.
- Funeral Home: Contact a funeral service provider to discuss arrangements.
- Coroner or Medical Examiner: If the death is unexpected, they may need to investigate.
- Insurance Company: Notify them to begin any necessary claims processes.
What to Expect
After you make these calls, you can expect the following:
- Emergency responders will arrive to confirm the death and may ask questions regarding the circumstances.
- If the death was expected, the process may be quicker, especially if a hospice nurse is present.
- Funeral home staff will guide you through the next steps regarding the body and funeral arrangements.
Quick Facts
Key Takeaways
- Always call emergency services first, regardless of the circumstances.
- Notify the deceased's healthcare provider to facilitate the issuance of a death certificate.
- Contact a funeral home early to discuss arrangements and options.
- Be prepared for emotional support; consider reaching out to family or friends for comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What if the death was expected?
Even if the death was expected, you must still call emergency services to confirm the death. - How long does it take for a coroner to arrive?
The coroner typically arrives within 30-60 minutes, depending on the circumstances. - Can I move the body?
No, do not move the body until authorities have arrived and given permission.
Important Note
Always prioritize your emotional well-being during this time. Seek support from friends, family, or professional counselors.
Jaden Bohman is a researcher led writer and editor focused on productivity, technology, and evidence based workflows. Jaden blends academic rigor with real world testing to deliver clear, actionable advice readers can trust.
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