This bill amends the existing law regarding death registration in New Mexico, specifically allowing physician assistants to certify the death of a patient. The bill stipulates that the medical certification of cause of death must be completed and signed within forty-eight hours after death by the physician, nurse practitioner, or now, the physician assistant in charge of the patient's care. Additionally, it clarifies that in the absence of these medical professionals, the certification can be completed by their associates or other qualified individuals, provided they have access to the medical history and have viewed the deceased.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the procedures for death registration, including the responsibilities of funeral service practitioners and the conditions under which a registered nurse can pronounce death. It also specifies that cases without medical attendance or those occurring more than 365 days after the last medical examination must be referred to the state medical investigator for investigation. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the death certification process and expand the roles of healthcare professionals in this area.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 24-14-20
Final Version: 24-14-20