If you’ve made a personal injury (PI) claim, you may be asked to attend a medical examination. This can sound daunting, especially if you’re unsure about what to expect. But don’t worry — the process is straightforward and plays an important role in your compensation case.
This guide will explain what a medical examination is, why it’s required, what happens during it, and what you should do to prepare.
Why Is a Medical Examination Needed in a PI Claim?
When you claim compensation for a personal injury, your solicitor must prove that:
- You were injured.
- The injury was caused by someone else’s negligence.
- The injury has had an impact on your life.
To support this, an independent medical report is required. The examination is not done by your GP or treating doctor, but by a neutral medical expert. Their job is to assess your condition and provide an unbiased report which both your solicitor and the defendant’s insurer can rely on.
Who Arranges the Examination?
Your solicitor will usually arrange the medical appointment for you. It’s often done through a medical agency that works with experts in various specialisms — for example, orthopaedics, neurology, or psychiatry, depending on the nature of your injuries.
You’ll be told in advance:
- The date and time of the appointment,
- The location (usually a clinic or private practice),
- And any documents to bring, such as ID or medical records.
What Should You Expect During the Examination?
The medical examination is not like a normal hospital check-up or treatment session. You won’t receive any medical advice or treatment — the purpose is purely to assess the extent of your injuries for the legal claim.
Here’s what typically happens:
1. Medical History
The doctor will begin by asking you questions about your health before the accident, and then about the incident itself — how it happened, when it happened, and what injuries you suffered.
They may ask:
- What symptoms did you experience immediately after?
- Have your symptoms improved, worsened or stayed the same?
- How have your injuries affected your daily life or ability to work?
2. Physical Examination
The doctor may perform a physical examination to assess:
- Pain levels
- Range of movement
- Swelling, bruising, or scarring
- Neurological symptoms (e.g. numbness or weakness)
The examination is usually gentle, and the doctor won’t force any movement that causes pain.
3. Psychological Assessment (if needed)
If your claim includes psychological effects — such as stress, anxiety, PTSD, or depression — you might see a psychologist or psychiatrist. They will ask about your mental health, sleep, relationships, and how the accident has affected your emotions.
How Long Does the Medical Examination Take?
Most medical examinations for PI claims last between 15 to 45 minutes. If there are multiple injuries or complex psychological impacts, it could take longer.
What Happens After the Examination?
The doctor will write a medical report, which is sent to your solicitor. This report is a vital piece of evidence. It outlines:
- Your injuries
- How long you may take to recover
- Whether your condition is permanent or temporary
- Recommendations for future treatment, if needed
Your solicitor may share the report with you and ask if you agree with it. If there’s anything incorrect, they can raise it with the doctor before finalising.
This report helps your solicitor to value your claim — including general damages (for pain and suffering) and special damages (for financial losses).
Do You Have to Attend the Examination?
Yes. If you’re claiming compensation, attending the medical examination is a required step. Failing to attend could delay your claim or even weaken your case, as there would be no independent evidence of your injuries.
If you’re worried about the location or time, speak to your solicitor. They can often reschedule or find a closer clinic.
Is the Doctor On Your Side?
The medical expert is independent, not on your side or the insurance company’s. Their duty is to the court — they must provide an honest and neutral report. So it’s important that you’re truthful, clear, and calm during the appointment.
Can You Bring Someone With You?
In most cases, yes. If you feel nervous or anxious, you can bring a friend or family member along for support. However, they usually won’t be allowed into the examination room unless you’re under 18 or require assistance.
What If You Disagree With the Report?
If you don’t agree with the medical report, speak to your solicitor. They can:
- Ask the expert for clarification,
- Request a supplementary report,
- Or arrange a second opinion if needed (though this is less common).
How to Prepare for Your Medical Examination
Here are a few tips to help you prepare:
- Be honest: Don’t exaggerate or underplay your symptoms. The expert has seen many injury claims and knows what to look for.
- Take notes: Write down your symptoms, how they affect your work, sleep, hobbies, etc. This will help you explain clearly during the exam.
- Dress appropriately: Wear comfortable clothes in case a physical examination is required.
- Bring ID: Some clinics ask for photo identification.
Final Thoughts
A medical examination is a normal and important step in the personal injury claims process. It’s not something to be afraid of — it simply helps provide independent evidence of your injuries and how they’ve affected your life.
By being honest, clear, and prepared, you can help the expert produce an accurate report that supports your claim. If you have any concerns, your solicitor is there to guide you through every step.