In medical negligence cases, an independent medical expert plays a vital role in assessing whether the care you received met the expected standard. These experts are qualified healthcare professionals with specialist knowledge and experience relevant to your case. They are not involved in your treatment and remain impartial throughout the legal process, with their duty being solely to the Court.
What does an independent medical expert do?
The primary role of an independent medical expert is to provide an objective, professional opinion on the care you received.
This includes:
Reviewing medical records
They examine all relevant documents, including test results, radiology, consultation notes, and treatment plans.
Assessing the standard of care
The expert will determine whether the treatment you received met the standards expected of a competent healthcare professional in the same field.
Identifying medical negligence
If there was a failure to meet the standard of care, the expert will explain how this may have caused or contributed to your injury or worsened your condition.
Providing a written report
This report becomes essential evidence in your claim, outlining the expert’s findings clearly and objectively.
Offering expert testimony
Whilst medical negligence claims often conclude without proceeding to trial, should your case reach that stage, the expert may be called upon to explain their findings to the Judge.
Why do we use independent medical experts?
An independent expert’s opinion is crucial for several reasons:
Objectivity
Since the expert has no prior involvement with your treatment, their opinion is unbiased and based purely on facts and medical knowledge.
Strengthening your medical negligence claim
Independent medical experts are there to determine whether negligence occurred. A clear, professional report from an independent expert can significantly strengthen your case should their opinion align with the legal criteria required to bring a successful claim.
Clarifying complex issues
Medical negligence cases often involve complex medical terminology and procedures. An expert breaks down these complexities for you, our legal team and the Court.
How are independent medical experts chosen?
We carefully select independent medical experts based on their qualifications, experience, and relevance to your specific case. For instance, if your claim involves surgical errors, we would seek the opinion of a General Surgeon with specific expertise in that particular field.
Summarising their role in medical negligence claims
An independent medical expert’s role is essential in determining whether you received appropriate care and whether any failings caused you harm. Their impartial and professional assessment helps ensure that your claim is supported by credible, evidence-based medical opinion, ultimately strengthening your chances of a successful outcome.
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