Introduction : Accurate cause-of-death data is vital for public health surveillance, policy-making, and monitoring health trends. In India, the Civil Registration System (CRS) mandates the documentation of deaths through the Medical Certification of Cause of Death (MCCD), yet the completeness and quality of data remain suboptimal.
OBJECTIVES : To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of Medical Officers in Public Health in Tamil Nadu regarding MCCD and CRS processes.
Methods : A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1,421 Government Medical Officers working in Primary Health Centres (PHCs), Urban PHCs, and Community Health Centres (CHCs)across Tamil Nadu. A structured questionnaire assessed demographic details, knowledge of CRS/MCCD, attitudes toward their role, and current practices.
RESULTS: Among 1,421 practitioners, 84.3% identified the CRS objective correctly, 96.5% recognized mandatory reporting of vital events, and 94.4% knew the legal framework. Knowledge gaps remained for the death registration time limit (80.6% correct) and death report forms (57.3% correct). Attitudes were favourable, with >90% agreeing on the value of CRS/MCCD and supporting formal training. Most knew correct use of Forms 4 and 4A, but 52.5% deprioritized certification under workload.
CONCLUSION: Practitioners showed strong knowledge and attitudes, but gaps in specific practices and workload-related barriers persist. Curriculum integration, refresher training, and systemic support are needed to improve data quality for public health policy.