For perinatal transfers

The following information is important in your role as a funeral director to assist families after the death of their baby.

Before the release of a baby

• A completed PathWest Mortuary - Authority to Collect Deceased form (see information below).
• The mother's name MUST be recorded on the authority form. PathWest uses the mother's hospital details to identify the baby. The reason for this is that the medical certificate of cause of stillbirth or neonatal death (BDM201) does not always have the baby's name recorded.
• Funeral directors are expected to bring their own suitable transfer bag to transfer the baby out of Perinatal Pathology.
• Please phone (08) 6458 2730 before you collect the baby to ensure the baby is ready (and on site) for collection.
• If collecting more than one baby, you are required to transport each baby to your vehicle individually before receiving the next baby.

Authority to collect deceased

Funeral directors are required to complete an Authority to Collect Deceased form before attending a PathWest Mortuary. This form provides confirmation that you have been authorised by the executor or next of kin to collect the deceased from our care.

Perinatal Pathology facilities

• Perinatal Pathology does not allow funeral directors to dress/prepare babies on site.
• Funeral directors cannot use PathWest property for viewings or chapel services.
• Upon request, Perinatal Pathology has small coffins available free of charge for babies less than 28 weeks' gestation (please note that the lids of the coffins are not sealed).