Thousands of motorists are injured in high-speed collisions in the U.S. every year. These injuries can range from whiplash to life-threatening brain trauma and spine injuries. A car accident medical examination is an opportunity to assess these injuries and determine which treatments and medication the patient will require. In this article, we discuss what a patient should expect during a medical examination.
If you’re an attorney working on a lawsuit involving a patient who was injured in a car accident, Cardinal LifeCare Consulting can assist in your case. We create objective life care plans designed to provide an overview of a patient’s medical needs and set out steps to help the patient attain optimal recovery. Have any questions about our methodology or want to find out more about our expert witness and life care planning services? Contact us today at 724-487-0519 to speak to one of our legal nurse consultants.
What Is the Purpose of a Medical Examination?
On the most basic level, a medical examination is an assessment conducted by a medical expert to determine the extent of a patient’s injuries, possible treatments, and any other medical and care needs. An attorney may request clients undergo this assessment to help calculate compensation. However, an insurer may ask a patient to attend a medical examination to determine whether the patient has exaggerated or lied about their injuries.
What to Expect During a Medical Examination?
A car accident can often result in serious injuries such as spine and brain injuries. The medical specialist conducting the examination will tailor the process to the patient’s specific condition. Besides reviewing the patient’s medical records, assessing injuries, and conducting tests, the examiner may also ask the following questions:
- Do you need additional treatments or testing for your injury?
- Are you certain your injuries are the result of the car accident?
- Do you feel you are ready to return to work?
- Do you have any pre-existing conditions?
Keep in mind that depending on which party ordered the examination, the patient’s experience can differ wildly. For example, if the examiner was appointed by an insurance company challenging a patient’s claim, the examiner will be looking for signs that the patient is exaggerating or lying about their injuries.
As a result, the examiner may even start the examination before the patient has entered the exam room, observing how the patient exits their transport and moves in the parking lot. During the examination, the examiner may even attempt to distract the patient to test their range of motion, reaction times, or pain levels. Once the examination has been concluded, the examiner will compile a report based on their findings and send a copy to the parties involved in the case for review.
Life Care Planning and Expert Witness Services for Car Accident Cases
If you’re an attorney involved in a car accident lawsuit, turn to the team at Cardinal LifeCare for our life care planning and expert witness services. Contact us today at 724-487-0519 to find out more.
