Michigan’s Electronic Death Registration System (EDRS) provides a secure, web-based environment that supports online collaboration, from the creation of records to the production of certified copies. EDRS allows funeral homes, medical certifiers, medical examiners, and registrars offices to complete death certificates online, securely, faster, and with fewer errors than on paper, 24 hours a day.
Jeff Duncan, PhD, State Registrar and Director, Division for Vital Records and Health Statistics, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, has written an article about the importance of the Michigan Electronic Death Registration System (EDRS). Timely knowledge of cause of death data assists in the identification of and response to deadly outbreaks of disease. Having recent and frequently updated information on the rates and demographic breakdown of causes of death allows for more responsive health program planning and policy implementation. Physicians can help in this public health effort by writing accurate cause of death statements and using EDRS to file death records. Access the article.
Updates to Michigan Law MCL 333.2843 and Impact on Physicians
On March 17, 2026, House Bills 4077 and 4078 were signed into law, modernizing and streamlining Michigan’s death certificate certification and filing process. These bipartisan amendments to MCL 333.2843 aim to reduce administrative burden, define the legal responsibility for attending physicians and medical examiners and support grieving families.
On or before March 16, 2027, physicians are required to submit medical certifications of death using a secure, web-based system provided by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Individuals using this system must first complete required training. The Michigan Electronic Death Registration System (EDRS) requires an internet browser, an internet connection and a MiLogin Business account. Administrative staff can assist with entering information.
Using a web-based system offers an increase in security, a decrease in errors, and more efficient reporting than filing on paper. The system is used to better coordinate the completion of a death certificate with funeral homes, medical examiners, attending physicians, county and city clerks.
These legislative updates significantly reduce paperwork and administrative hurdles for physicians, enabling them to certify deaths, within the 48 hours required by law, more efficiently and securely. The streamlined process eases physicians’ workload and ensures families receive timely access to necessary documents for burial, estate planning, and insurance purposes.
With the adoption of House Bills 4077 and 4078, Michigan physicians play an even more vital role in supporting families through loss, while benefiting from improved, user-friendly state systems that help minimize red tape and expedite essential tasks.
