Death Certificates: What Family Physicians Need to Know

Date & Time

Wednesday, December 3, 2025 | 3:00–5:00 p.m.

Location / Format

New: A virtual option has recently been added for this program.

In Person: WMU Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine
300 Portage Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49007

Virtual Option: Live online participation available (connection details will be emailed to virtual registrants)

Cost

Free to attend for MAFP Active and Resident members.
Advance registration required.

Overview

Family physicians play a key role in accurately completing death certificates — a task that carries clinical, legal, and public health significance. This program will review who is authorized to sign, outline statutory requirements, and identify common errors to avoid. Participants will gain practical guidance on ensuring accuracy, compliance, and professionalism when certifying cause of death. For those attending in person, the program also includes a guided tour of the morgue.

Faculty

Patrick Hansma, DO
Medical Examiner – Allegan, Barry, Berrien, Branch, Cass, Calhoun, Grand Traverse, Kalamazoo, Leelanau, Mason, Muskegon, Osceola, St. Joseph, and Van Buren Counties
Forensic Pathology Fellowship Program Director
Assistant Professor – Department of Pathology
Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine

CME

The AAFP has reviewed Death Certificates: What Family Physicians Need to Know and deemed it acceptable for up to 1.00 Live AAFP Prescribed credit(s). Term of Approval is from 12/03/2025 to 12/03/2025. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

This event meets the State of Michigan's medical ethics training requirement.

Register Today