Description
In this presentation, Leigh Evans addresses attendees on the MedCo system, focusing on its role in sourcing medical reports for low-value personal injury claims resulting from road traffic accidents. Starting with personal greetings and a light-hearted acknowledgment of pandemic-related communication challenges, Leigh transitions into an overview of MedCo's functions and governance. He explains how MedCo serves as a not-for-profit body, detailing its structure that includes a board composed of representatives from various organizations including medical associations and the insurance sector.
Leigh clarifies that MedCo primarily aims to improve the quality of medical reporting and now includes provisions for unrepresented claimants, which allows individuals to pursue claims without legal intermediaries. He emphasizes the importance of the accreditation process for medical experts who wish to participate in the MedCo system.
As he dives deeper, Leigh outlines recent reforms known as the 'Whiplash Reforms' which aimed to reduce insurance costs by regulating compensation for whiplash injuries. He details new rules involving the definition of whiplash, the ban on settling claims without medical evidence, and the introduction of a fixed tariff for damages related to these injuries. He discusses the implications of these changes for MedCo and its stakeholders, noting how the system has evolved to accommodate both soft tissue and non-soft tissue injuries.
During the session, Leigh invites feedback and questions from medical professionals, touching upon the challenges and nuances in medical reporting, including the differentiation between soft tissue and more severe injuries. A recurring theme is the concern over the quality of medical reports generated through agents, and various attendees voice their frustrations regarding fee structures and the influence of medical reporting organizations on report quality. The presentation ends with an invitation for further discussion and questions, ensuring a collaborative approach to addressing concerns about medical reporting standards and practices within the MedCo framework.