Authors
Varsha N Shetty, Keelin O'Donoghue, Mary Donnelly, Sara Leitao
Published in
Journal of perinatal medicine. Jun 23, 2026. Epub Jun 23, 2026.
Abstract
The primary role of a Coroner is to investigate unexpected deaths. However, the global literature on Coroner's role in perinatal death cases is limited.
This study used the Joanna Briggs Institute framework and comparative law methodology to evaluate existing literature from high-income countries and jurisdictions (including where relevant states or provinces). A dual-source approach reviewed peer-reviewed and grey literature across 12 electronic databases, alongside national legislation from jurisdictions with a Coronial or equivalent system.
After analysing 24 countries with Coronial or equivalent systems and legislation available in English, the study found that only 12 of these countries had Coroners investigating perinatal deaths, and only one country mandated reporting of all perinatal death cases. A significant gap was found in Coroner's role in perinatal death cases through legislative sources and peer-reviewed literature.
While global uniformity in Coronial law is not feasible, countries should adopt standardised reporting guidelines, training, and expertise to ensure consistent and high-quality death investigations. Further research is needed on holistic approaches, examining the emotional, social, and systemic factors involved in perinatal death inquiries, understanding their impacts on families, healthcare professionals, and other stakeholders, and encouraging multidisciplinary collaboration to ensure thorough and comprehensive investigations.
PMID:
42329044
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 22 Jun 2026.
Read full publication at:
Please sign in
to see all details.
Advertisement
Stats
- Recommendations n/a n/a positive of 0 vote(s)
- Views 6
- Comments 0