Performing an Independent Medical Examination: From Initial Contact to Report Preparation

In our last chapter of the introductory section to this text, we broach the topic of the examination that we are ultimately responsible for as the forensic expert. So far, we have covered basic concepts and considerations needed for the mental health professional to grasp in order to fulfill the duties expected. Here, we explore the independent medical examination in very practical terms, with examples of an outlined approach that the expert must take throughout the process. The value of a strong and ethically sound method for conducting an examination as a forensic mental health expert cannot be overstated. It is all too common that the impartiality that must be upheld is compromised, and the expert opinions rendered fall short of the scientific precision aimed to minimize bias. In cases where the expert witness’ integrity is in doubt, a “hired gun” reputation can assuredly ruin credibility and thus careers. On first contact with the attorney interested in hiring and finding our expert opinion, we need a solid and regimented protocol by which to proceed. It is our goal in this chapter to provide an overview of what the process, including the report, may look like, which as we have hopefully demonstrated in the preceding chapters includes medical and legal documentation. This unique blend of professional duties that makes for the art of our field takes into account the formulation of medical psychiatric evaluations and legal principles and standards. Once complete, our report may be the deciding factor in a court decision and speaks again to the magnitude of importance and weight each step in our fact-finding process and report generation carries. After these concepts have been outlined in further detail, we will begin to turn our attention to specific cases that are routinely encountered by the forensic mental health professional.