Getting Back To Basics: Here’s Why You Need To Have A Legal Nurse Consultant On Your Team
Category: Legal Nurse
Author: Georgina Tyburski
Posted: Friday - November 20, 2015
Although the fields of law and medicine coincide more often than you may think, they're definitely not one and the same. While extensive research is part of the job, it's difficult for any lawyer to understand all of the intricacies involved in medical practices and procedures. It's for this reason that legal nurse consultants are a crucial addition to any legal team when things like medical malpractice or worker's compensation come to light in a case.
What does a certified legal nurse consultant do?
As previously stated, people who work in the legal field can't be expected to know every intricacy of the medical system. That's where legal medical experts and certified legal nurse consultants come in. These experts are able to assist lawyers with medical malpractice cases of all shapes and sizes, and in ways that provide essential information. Almost 12,000 deaths are caused by unnecessary surgery annually, and 7,000 from other types of medical malpractice. These cases are often difficult and detailed, and the more medical knowledge you have going in, the better.
What qualifications should a legal nurse consultant have?
When looking to add a legal nurse consultant to your team, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First and foremost, experience. Any candidate for this position should have a substantial amount of clinical experience, as well as a background in legal nurse consulting. Education is also extremely important. Candidates should have an education in nursing, as well as strong communication skills and a strong background in medical-legal related topics.
Why should a legal nurse consultant be added to a legal team?
Of all physicians sued for medical malpractice, 75% said the lawsuit took them by surprise. And even then, many of these physicians win the cases filed against them. Having a legal nurse consultant could mean the difference between a case becoming one of the 79% won by physicians, or becoming a beacon for medical justice.
If you deal with medical lawsuits often, adding a legal nurse consultant to your team is an asset you simply can't function without. Make sure your clients are getting the justice they deserve, especially when their health is concerned.
