51 LAWYER MONTHLY EXPERT WITNESS AWARDS 2025 Looking ahead, how do you see the role of expert witnesses evolving in the field of obstetrics and gynaecology over the next few years? The role will continue to evolve, demanding adaptability and forward-thinking: • Increased Specialisation: As obstetrics and gynaecology become more sub-specialised, there will likely be a greater need for experts with highly specific, niche expertise to address complex clinical questions accurately. • Integration of Technology: Technology will become increasingly integral. This includes leveraging digital platforms for secure and efficient case management and report delivery, potentially using validated AI tools to assist in analysing large datasets or specific clinical information (like CTG traces or imaging results), while always maintaining ultimate clinical oversight and judgment. Adapting to remote consultations and virtual court appearances will also be standard. • Greater Focus on Human Factors & Systemic Issues: There’s a growing understanding that adverse events often result from system failures, not just individual errors. Experts will increasingly need to analyse and comment on factors like teamwork dynamics, communication breakdowns, workload pressures, and organisational safety culture. • Emphasis on Formal Training & Standards: The requirement for specific, high-quality medico-legal training (such as the CUBS certificate) and demonstrable adherence to professional and ethical standards set by bodies like the GMC and Royal Colleges will become even more critical for credibility. • Data Analytics & AI Interpretation: The emergence of AI in clinical practice may mean experts need to not only understand its applications but also potentially critique AI generated insights, evaluate their reliability, and integrate them appropriately within their own clinical reasoning. I am committed to navigating these changes proactively by expanding my medico-legal services, enhancing digital report delivery systems, actively participating in ongoing professional development and conferences, and incorporating relevant new technologies. My focus remains steadfast on delivering unbiased, high-quality, evidence-based expert opinions with professionalism and integrity, continuously pursuing excellence in both the medical and legal domains and learning from incidents. Cases now often examine adherence to national safety initiatives and potential systemic failings. There is an increasing UK focus on risk management and patient safety. • Informed Consent (Montgomery): The Montgomery v Lanarkshire Health Board ruling mandates a patient-centred approach. Doctors must ensure patients know material risks and reasonable alternatives. Consent-related cases now scrutinize the quality and documentation of these discussions specific to the individual. • Advancements in Technology & Treatments: Progress in areas like minimally invasive surgery or complex fetal medicine raises new questions about appropriate application, skill, and managing associated risks. • Risk Management Focus: An increasing emphasis on risk management and patient safety in the UK aligns with my background and influences case analysis. What do you believe sets a highly effective expert witness apart in high-stakes litigation? A highly effective expert witness combines several critical attributes, all of which are central to my practice and MNS Medical’s ethos: • Deep Clinical Expertise & Current Practice: Possessing demonstrable, current, and relevant clinical experience in the specific area under review, maintained through ongoing consultant practice. • Robust Medico-Legal Understanding: Having a thorough knowledge of legal principles, the duties of an expert, and procedural requirements (CPR Part 35), reinforced by formal qualifications like the Cardiff University Bond Solon (CUBS) Expert Witness Certificate. • Unwavering Objectivity & Impartiality: A steadfast commitment to providing an unbiased, independent opinion based solely on the evidence, irrespective of the instructing party, delivering unbiased reports. • Exceptional Clarity & Communication: The ability to articulate complex medical issues clearly and concisely, both in comprehensive written reports and during oral evidence, effectively bridging the gap for a non-medical audience. • Thoroughness & Attention to Detail: Conducting a meticulous review of all relevant documentation and carefully considering all pertinent facts to ensure precision and reliability. • Strong, Evidence-Based Reasoning: Providing clear, logical justifications for opinions, firmly grounded in the factual evidence, national guidelines, and scientific literature. • Professionalism, Reliability & Efficiency: Adhering strictly to agreed deadlines, maintaining prompt communication, operating with integrity, and offering a reliable turnaround time (typically 4-6 weeks for reports). www.mnsmedical.co.uk
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