The COVID-19 pandemic has created significant challenges for both clinical and mediciolegal physiotherapy practice.
Although the MLACP is unable to provide individual guidance on decision making regarding face to face assessments, we recommend that members refer to current Government guidance and discuss the implications with their instructing solicitor.
They should ensure that they have carefully considered and documented the risk and potential benefit to themselves and the client / client’s carers or family members, being particularly mindful of those factors that either increase the risk of transmission of COVID-19 and / or the potential for serious complications.
If a face to face assessment is carried out, they should follow Government guidelines on infection control including correct use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
Members should ensure that the format in which they carry out a medicolegal assessment is clearly conveyed in their report, including any limitations that the method imposed on the accuracy or thoroughness of that assessment.
