A study on appraisal of effectiveness of the MCCD scheme.

Medical Certification of Cause of Death [MCCD] scheme was proposed by WHO as an imperative tool to obtain scientific and reliable information in terms of causes of mortality. It was accepted by the Government of India with suitable incorporations made in The Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969[1]. A cross sectional study was done with an objective to appraise the completeness and accuracy in filling up of these certificates as per the prescribed guidelines and subsequently assess the success of the MCCD training scheme. Information was collected on the various components of the cause of death certificate in all cases brought for autopsy over a period of two year and statistical analysis done. Results of the study reflected that there was a conflict of opinion and understanding as to the meaning of the terms „causes of death‟, „modes of death‟, and „manners of death‟ among the doctors. Extra effort needs to be put forth to educate and generate awareness regarding complete and accurate filling of the forms and to make them understand the very purpose of MCCD scheme, else it won’t serve the very purpose for which it was introduced. Also the lacunae in the scheme that exist need to be addressed.