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Decedent Affairs
Death places a tremendous emotional burden on survivors; added stress is usually imposed by urgent requirement for disposition of decedent remains and prompt funeral arrangements. When a death occurs at San Antonio Military Medical Center (SAMMC) the primary next of kin will need to contact the Decedent Affairs office, SAMMC to insure that the necessary paperwork has been completed prior to releasing the decedent to the funeral home of their choice. The office location is on the 1st floor, Bed Tower Side, Patient Administration Division, Decedent Affairs. The office is open from 07:30 to 16:00 Monday-Friday, excluding all federal and training holidays. Questions may be directed to the Decedent Affairs office at 210-916-4339. Administrative Officer of the Day will be available after hours, weekends and federal holidays at 210-916-4141.
Funeral Home
You may choose a funeral home even if you have not signed all of the paperwork at San Antonio Military Medical Center (SAMMC). The remains may not be released from the hospital until the Release of Remains Form (SF 523-A) has been signed by the primary next of kin.
Death Certificates
Only natural caused deaths can be certified by SAMMC’s physicians; all others will be certified and released by the Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office to your funeral home. There is a charge for certified copies, your funeral home will advise you of the price.
Burial at any National Cemetery
The next of kin will need to locate the service members DD214. Take these papers to the funeral home of your choice for assistance. If these forms cannot be found, you will need to request assistance through the Veterans’ Administration, 800-321-1080.
Autopsy Results
Autopsy results and copies of medical records are requested through the Release of Information office with a certified copy of the death certificate. Operating hours for correspondence are Monday thru Friday 0730-1630; closed federal and training holidays, 210-916-1157.