Caution on Medical Expert Witness Offers

Established healthcare practitioners may be asked to help out in a medical malpractice lawsuit. They can be tapped by the plaintiff or the defense to provide accurate information to corroborate or dispute facts in a case. This is especially true in recent times, as more hospitalists find themselves on the dock and both camps seek more evidence to bolster their arguments. There are some issues to consider when approached with offers to be an expert medical witness.

First up, a medical expert witness in a malpractice case needs to be from the same line of specialization as the practitioner in the other camp. Although there are no specific qualifications for becoming a medical expert witness, there is a possibility that the other side may question the witness' credentials.

Being tapped as an expert witness can be a lucrative avenue for any practitioner. However, they are still bound by the Code of Ethics as stated by their specialist medical organization and state registration boards. Take note as well that testimonies are public record.

Providing independent testimony under oath in a malpractice case can be one of the most taxing experiences any medical practitioner will undergo. They only need to see what is being asked of them before considering the assignment, especially if this can play into their reputation.