What type of expenses does the state prioritize over funeral costs?

The state prioritizes last sickness expenses over funeral costs because these expenses are associated with the medical care of the deceased prior to death. Last sickness expenses typically include hospital bills, physician fees, and other healthcare costs incurred during the final illness. These costs are often seen as essential for ensuring proper care and treatment during a vulnerable time and can carry significant financial implications.

In contrast, while transport expenses, storage fees, and headstone costs are also important, they are often considered ancillary in relation to the immediate medical needs that arise during a person's final days. Therefore, recognizing last sickness expenses as a higher priority reflects the focus on the care and medical treatment received just before death. This prioritization can affect how claims are managed and distributed from any available funds or insurance benefits.