§ 13921. Sudden death.
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/pa/title-16/chapter-139/13921A research copy — for the controlling text, always check the official state or federal source. Not legal advice.
§ 13921. Sudden death.
(a)Recognition.-- The coroner shall recognize a death as sudden if all of the following apply:
(1)The death occurs without prior medical attendance by an individual who may lawfully execute a certificate of death in this Commonwealth.
(2)Within 24 hours of death the decedent:
(i)was discharged from medical attendance;
(ii)had a change of medical attendance occur; or
(iii)had medical attendance and the medical attendant refuses or is unable to certify the cause of death.
(b)Construction.-- Nothing in this section may be construed to affect the coroner's discretion in determining if a death is suspicious or to authorize a coroner to investigate a sudden death further than necessary to determine the cause and manner of death.
(c)Definition.-- As used in this section, the term "medical attendance" shall include treatment or care at a facility providing medical services, including a hospital, nursing home and hospice service.
16c13922s