If you’ve been scheduled for an independent medical appointment with a specialist for a medicolegal opinion, it’s important to understand the purpose of this evaluation and how it fits into your legal process. Here’s what you should expect and how to prepare.
What Is the Purpose of the Appointment?
The independent medical assessment is conducted by a specialist to provide an impartial, unbiased opinion after thoroughly evaluating your medical condition. This evaluation is meant to assist your legal case by providing a comprehensive report to your solicitor, outlining the expert's findings and medical opinions related to your injury or condition.
What to Expect from the Specialist
It’s important to remember that the specialist you will be seeing is not your treating doctor. They will not be involved in your care or offer any treatment plans, suggestions, or medical advice. Instead, their role is solely to assess your condition and provide a professional opinion. If you have questions or concerns about your treatment or ongoing care, these should be directed to your general practitioner or other specialists who are actively managing your health.
What to Wear to the Appointment
The specialist may need to examine the affected part of your body and, at times, a full body examination may be required. To make the process smoother, we recommend wearing loose-fitting clothing and comfortable undergarments to allow for any necessary physical examinations.
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
Here are some tips to ensure you are prepared for you appointment:
Bring Identification
You’ll need to bring a clear photo identification card such as your passport or driver’s license. We will make a copy for our records.
Bring Medical Records
Bring along all relevant medical records, documents, scan results, and scan films or CDs. While we may already have received most of the documentation from your solicitor, it’s always a good idea to bring any additional items you think are important.
Arrive Early
Please plan for delays such as finding parking, and aim to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment. This allows time to complete any necessary paperwork. If you arrive after your designated time, we may have to reschedule your appointment, and a cancellation fee will apply.
Can My Family Members or Friends Sit In?
The presence of family members or friends during the appointment is generally left to the specialist’s discretion. However, the preference is for the consultation to remain a one-on-one interaction between you and the specialist. Spouses or other supporting family members may be allowed to attend, but they should not answer questions or provide information on your behalf.
If you require a chaperone, please let us know in advance so we can make the necessary arrangements.
What If I Need a Translator?
If you require a translator, please discuss this with your solicitor, and ensure that a qualified medical interpreter is available for your appointment, which usually lasts about an hour. Please note that family members or friends cannot act as interpreters for these appointments.
Can I Have an Appointment Over Telehealth?
Telehealth appointments may be available, but suitability is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. In some situations, a face-to-face examination may be required to perform a physical assessment, in which case an online appointment would not be appropriate.
How Do I Organise an Examination Appointment?
Appointments are organised through your solicitor via our online portal. Once we receive all the necessary details, we’ll coordinate and facilitate an appointment with one of our specialists.
What If I Need to Reschedule My Appointment?
We understand that sometimes rescheduling is unavoidable, and we’re happy to accommodate your request. However, please be aware that if you need to reschedule with less than two weeks’ notice, a cancellation fee will apply.
