Decedent Affairs

A patient who dies after having been admitted to the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) is considered an in-patient death. For patients who die prior to admission, refer to the section on “Emergency Department Deaths.” 

Following the death of a patient at UTMB hospital, the pronouncing physician, nursing service and Autopsy Service complete all required decedent affairs paperwork. The pronouncing physician is responsible for contacting the legal next-of-kin and discussing autopsy with the legal next-of-kin.

UTMB offers an autopsy at no charge for all in-patient deaths.
For physician responsibilities see the page "Physician Responsibilities"; for nursing service responsibilities see "Nursing Responsibilities".

In-patient form: Form 5012