Family members need to act quickly in the aftermath of a person's death -- from COVID-19 or otherwise -- in Michigan. | Pixabay
Family members need to act quickly in the aftermath of a person's death -- from COVID-19 or otherwise -- in Michigan. | Pixabay
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) wants residents to know that the state has the authority to handle bodily remains if the deceased person’s family cannot be reached in a timely manner.
“COVID-19 has exacted a painful toll on Michigan’s population,” MDHHS Director Robert Gordon said in an emergency order issued in May, according to Michigan.gov. “This sudden increase in deaths has placed a significant burden on some hospitals and funeral homes. To alleviate this burden, ensure the safe and proper handling of bodily remains, and ensure the deceased are treated with the utmost respect and dignity, I find that it is necessary to amend the timelines and authorizations pertaining to the disposition of bodies and to relax certain licensing provisions for funeral directors.”
Under the order, the state will control the final disposition of a dead human body if an authorized person, such as a family member, doesn't make contact with a health facility or funeral director within 24 hours of the death, or if arrangements haven’t been made within 48 hours. However, a body cannot be cremated without authorization from the medical examiner if the person died under suspicious circumstances or due to criminal activity.
Alerts Sign-up