Change in Policy – No Permit Required for Fetal Loss

From Toni Miller, Policy Manager & Community Partner Liaison
Arizona Department of Health Services

The Arizona Department of Health Services, Bureau of Vital Records (Department) will be implementing the new death registration system, DAVE, on October 2, 2017.  The DAVE system was developed to enhance death registration workflows statewide and to adhere to Statutes and Rules that govern the operation of Vital Records.  The Department has shared the enhancements and workflow changes with our partners.

As a result, the Department received inquiries from multiple partners concerning no longer needing a disposition transit permit for final disposition of the product of human conception that is less than twenty weeks gestation or if the weight is less than three hundred fifty grams.

The linked memo below from the Arizona Attorney General’s Office clearly outlines the statutory requirements for death certificate registration and disposition transit permit issuance.  As supported in the attached memo, the Department will no longer be issuing disposition transit permits for the product of human conception that is less than twenty weeks gestation or if the weight is less than three hundred fifty grams.  Should you have any questions please contact the Department.

This new policy will go into effect on October 2, 2017

Attorney General: Death Certificate Authority for Fetal Remains


NOTE from AFCCA:

Your association is aware that there are still issues with this new policy and we are actively working towards a solution.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the AFCCA office.