Legal, insurance and other assessments

When contracted by a third party to assess someone who is not their patient, the usual therapeutic relationship does not exist, and good practice means the practitioner: (a) applies this code's standards to the assessment, being respectful, alert to the person's concerns and ensuring their consent; (b) explains their field and role and what the assessment is for, what it involves and how far it goes; (c) anticipates and tries to correct misunderstandings about the assessment and report; (d) gives an impartial report (8.7); and (e) tells the person or their treating practitioner of any unrecognised serious health issue found, as a duty of care.

• Consent form for the independent assessment explaining role and purpose
• Assessment report with a declaration of impartiality
• Record of informing the person or their treating practitioner of a significant incidental finding

• Person not told the assessor acts for an insurer or employer
• Serious incidental finding left undisclosed