Creating High-Performing Medical Experts
Red Health has operated for over a decade in the medico-legal field, and there’s something that often surprises people, even in our industry. A medical practitioner may excel in diagnosis and treatment, but the skills required for medico-legal work are distinct and often unfamiliar, therefore being an excellent practitioner doesn’t necessarily mean someone will make a great medico-legal expert.
Writing outstanding independent medical reports requires more than clinical acumen; it commands an understanding of legal processes and the ability to communicate complex medical concepts clearly within a legal framework. Experience, specialised training, and a willingness to adapt to the specific demands of the legal environment help develop proficient, independent medical examiners.
The journey from skilled clinician to proficient medico-legal expert is one of growth and adaptation. It involves developing new skills and perspectives that aren’t part of standard medical training. Strong leadership and a supportive organisational culture that values continuous learning and feedback nurtures this growth.
In the following article, our CEO Vanessa Herrmann looks at how feedback influences a medical expert’s professional growth and examines some parallels between this field and the High-Performance Work Systems used in other industries.
Whether you’re a legal professional who has experienced unclear medical reports, a medical specialist considering medico-legal work, or someone interested in the intersection of medicine and law, we offer our perspective on this important aspect of the legal system.
Dr Rajiv Siotia, a Consultant Psychiatrist with a diverse and accomplished Medico-Legal career, highlights the importance of continuous development in this unique field:
”I think a lot of people equate clinical skills to medicolegal skills. As you [Vanessea] note, they are very different and require a different skill set. Feedback is perhaps one of the most important parts of growth in this field as I have experienced for myself how it has shaped my medicolegal career over time. It is quite an isolating role otherwise.”
━ Dr Rajiv Siotia
MRCPsych ⏐ M.Med Sci (Clinical Psychiatry, UK) ⏐ AFRACMA ⏐ FRANZCP ⏐ MBBS ⏐ DSM IV / V ⏐ PIRS ⏐ FHEA, UK ⏐ GEPI ⏐ AMA 4 ⏐ SIRA AHP
Dr Siotia’s reflection underscores a key theme in the medicolegal space: the transition from clinical expertise to the distinct competencies required for medico-legal excellence. His insights resonate with the importance of structured feedback and mentorship, as vital tools for refining skills and navigating the complexities of the role.
Dr Simone Baker, Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Neuropsychologist, on Reflecting and Adapting in Medico-Legal Work:
”I am often left with a very curious feeling as to how I went in the box. I am acutely aware as to the impact on proceedings, but little attention is allocated to this in training or in CPD. Moreover, the difference in providing evidence in QCAT, Tribunals and Court is profound.”
━ Dr Simone Baker
PhDPsych ⏐ B.A.(Hons in Psychology) ⏐ DipTeach MAPS ⏐ MCCN ⏐ MCCP ⏐ DSM V
Dr Baker’s insight sheds light on an often-overlooked aspect of medico-legal work: the importance of preparation and feedback for expert testimony. Navigating the nuances of different legal forums requires adaptability, and her reflections highlight the gap in training when it comes to preparing medical practitioners for this critical role.
At Red Health, we aim to bridge this gap through mentoring, continuous education, and a commitment to excellence. By fostering an environment where feedback is not only encouraged but acted upon, we support our medical experts in honing their skills to meet the demands of a diverse legal landscape.
Read the full article here.
