Confidentiality is an accepted and fundamental basis of the doctor-patient relationship as patients have a right to expect that their personal information will be held in confidence by their doctor. The importance of confidentiality in the doctor-patient relationship dates back to antiquity.

Download the medico-legal booklet here.

From time to time, JMOs will need to consider whether they are required to refer the death of a patient to the Coroner or whether a death certificate can be completed. 

The aim of this booklet is:

• to outline the circumstances in which a patient’s death should be reported to the Coroner
• to provide guidance on the preparation of a report to the Coroner or a death certificate.

Download the medico-legal booklet here.

Patient complaints reflect a patient’s subjective impression of the care they have received. Complaints can occur in the absence of any error or adverse treatment outcome. They are often associated with poor communication between a doctor and a patient or the patient’s expectations not being met.

The focus of this booklet is on ‘treating doctor’ reports, not independent expert reports.The majority of the reports you will be asked to prepare are treating doctor reports; that is, factual reports outlining your involvement in the management of a patient. However, you may also be asked to provide your medical opinion e.g. the prognosis of a soft tissue injury. In writing a medico-legal report it is essential that you clearly differentiate between the facts and your opinions.

The aim of this booklet is to provide guidance on:

• writing a medico-legal report, and
• giving evidence in Court.

Download the medico-legal booklet here.