We are aware of some recent confusion around the timing of medical examinations after an accident, particularly a belief that the latest MedCo training instructs experts not to examine claimants before 6 weeks. This is not correct.

 

What the MedCo Training Says

MedCo’s Medical Advisory Board (MAB) has provided feedback in the latest mandatory module. Their guidance focuses on clinical accuracy, not imposing timing rules.

Key points:

  • The MAB has seen examinations taking place within 4 weeks of an accident and considers this too early in most cases, unless:
    • the claimant has already fully recovered, or
    • the claimant needs treatment they cannot otherwise access.
  • The MAB states that in most cases, they would expect examinations to take place 6+ weeks post‑accident, because prognosis is more accurate.
  • This is guidance, not a restriction. Early examinations are still permitted when clinically appropriate.
  • The MAB is particularly concerned about prognosis given within the first 4 weeks, as recovery patterns are harder to assess accurately at this stage.

 

Who decides the appointment timing?

  • If the claimant is represented, the solicitor (on client instruction) works with them to choose the timing.
  • For unrepresented claimants requesting very early appointments:
    • Experts are encouraged to speak with them first to understand whether early examination is clinically needed.
    • If the claimant remains symptomatic with no unmet treatment need, it may be sensible to advise examination 4–6 weeks post‑accident to support accurate prognosis.

 

Clarification on Examination Timing Following Recent MedCo Training

We are aware of some recent confusion around the timing of medical examinations after an accident, particularly a belief that the latest MedCo training instructs experts not to examine claimants before 6 weeks. This is not correct.

 

What the MedCo Training Says

MedCo’s Medical Advisory Board (MAB) has provided feedback in the latest mandatory module. Their guidance focuses on clinical accuracy, not imposing timing rules.

Key points:

  • The MAB has seen examinations taking place within 4 weeks of an accident and considers this too early in most cases, unless:
    • the claimant has already fully recovered, or
    • the claimant needs treatment they cannot otherwise access.
  • The MAB states that in most cases, they would expect examinations to take place 6+ weeks post‑accident, because prognosis is more accurate.
  • This is guidance, not a restriction. Early examinations are still permitted when clinically appropriate.
  • The MAB is particularly concerned about prognosis given within the first 4 weeks, as recovery patterns are harder to assess accurately at this stage.

 

Who decides the appointment timing?

  • If the claimant is represented, the solicitor (on client instruction) works with them to choose the timing.
  • For unrepresented claimants requesting very early appointments:
    • Experts are encouraged to speak with them first to understand whether early examination is clinically needed.
    • If the claimant remains symptomatic with no unmet treatment need, it may be sensible to advise examination 4–6 weeks post‑accident to support accurate prognosis.

 

No Minimum Timing Requirement

To be clear:

  • There is no legal minimum interval between accident and examination.
  • There is no MedCo rule requiring examinations to be 6 weeks or later.
  • The training offers clinical guidance, not restrictions.

 

Our Data Insight

We have reviewed our own data and it shows less than 5% of examinations currently take place before 4 weeks.