What To Do Right Now: Hospital, Home, or Hospice


 In a hard moment, simple steps help. Whether a death occurs at a hospital, at home, or in hospice, this guide shows who to call and what happens next in Maryland. We’re here  24/7 to handle the details with care.

If a Death Occurs in a Hospital

  • The hospital team will coordinate the legal pronouncement of death and contact the attending provider.

  • Ask the hospital to notify Lassahn Funeral Homes (you may also call us directly anytime).

  • The medical certification on the death certificate is typically completed by the physician, physician assistant (PA), or nurse practitioner (NP); the funeral director files the death certificate within 72 hours in Maryland.
“Quiet corridor near a Maryland hospital family waiting area”

If a Death Occurs at Home (not in hospice)

  • Call 911. EMS will respond and coordinate next steps; a qualified professional will handle the pronouncement and contact the medical examiner if required. Maryland EMS operates under statewide medical protocols. 

  • When permitted, request that Lassahn Funeral Homes be contacted for transfer once authorities release your loved one.

  • Our team will guide you on paperwork and timing.


“Front door entryway of a Maryland home with soft light”

If a Death Occurs in Hospice Care (home or facility)


  • Call the hospice provider first. Hospice staff typically coordinate the pronouncement under program protocols and notify the attending provider; they will then guide next steps and contact us per your wishes.


  • If you cannot reach hospice promptly, call 911 and then contact us.



  • We coordinate with hospice to support you and arrange transfer.


“Peaceful bedside table with flowers and soft lamp”

What We Handle for You


  • Transfer & care: We bring your loved one into our care and maintain secure custody.

  • Vital records: In Maryland, the medical certification is completed by the attending physician/PA/NP; the funeral director files the death certificate within 72 hours. 

  • Permits: Before final disposition or out-of-state transport, a burial-transit permit must be obtained; it accompanies the remains to the destination.

  • Cremation (if chosen): We verify authorizations as required by COMAR crematory regulations; Maryland rules also require the identification disc/tag to be placed with the cremated remains.
“Hands organizing documents in a neat folder”

Simple Checklists

 Hospital – Right now


  • Tell the nurse you’d like Lassahn Funeral Homes to assist.

  • Gather basic information (full name, date of birth, preferred location).

  • Call us 24/7 at (410) 665-2000.

Home (not hospice) – Right now


  • Call 911.

  • After authorities advise, call Lassahn for next steps: (410) 665-2000.

  • Locate any advance directives if available.

Hospice – Right now


  • Call your hospice nurse.

  • Ask them to notify Lassahn or call us directly.

Keep important documents nearby.



Locations & 24/7 Help

We serve families across Nottingham/Overlea and Kingsville from our two locations in Baltimore County. For immediate assistance, call Nottingham (410-665-2000) or Kingsville (410-592-6100)—we’re here for you around the clock.