Doctors not telling Vic coroner of deaths

Some deaths in Victorian hospitals might not be reported to the coroner because those responsible are confused about how to do it and fear investigation, a report has found.

The Coronial Council of Victoria believes the number of deaths in hospitals that should be referred to the coroner are under-reported.

Anecdotal evidence suggests fear of investigation and confusion among junior medical staff, or confusion about the reporting process, are probably behind the under-reporting, the council said in its annual report for 2014/15.