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Will I need a medical if I make a work injury claim?

By Chris Salmon | Updated: September 28, 2025

If you decide to make a compensation claim following an injury at work, you will need to attend a medico-legal assessment. A medical assessment of your injury is a critical part of the claims process.

This article explains why the medical is required, what happens during the appointment, and what you can expect afterwards.

Why do I need a medical?

An independent medical assessment will help establish that your accident was the cause of your injuries. The assessment provides a professional opinion on the extent of your pain, suffering and loss of mobility. It will also consider the impact on your life, the prognosis for recovery and recommend suitable treatments or care. Your solicitor will use the report to calculate the correct level of compensation.

Who will carry out the medical?

An independent and impartial expert will carry out the exam. Your solicitor will select the expert based on their experience with your type of injury. Usually, the specialist will have a similar background to the doctors who treated you, ensuring a thorough review and that any further treatment needs are identified.

Medical experts must comply with CPR Part 35 and their duty to the court, not to the instructing party (Source: Civil Procedure Rules)

Can I choose which doctor carries out the medical?

No. Choosing an independent expert is essential to prevent the defendant from claiming the report is biased.

What happens once the medical report has been prepared?

The expert will prepare a detailed report after your exam. Your solicitor will review it for accuracy and may request amendments. You will then be asked to approve the report before it is shared with the defendant’s solicitor.

When will the medical exam take place?

Appointments are usually arranged as soon as possible. Delays can make it harder to prove a link between the accident and your injury, although a delay does not automatically compromise your case. In some cases, more than one exam may be needed if the full extent of your injury only becomes clear over time.

What happens at the medical exam?

The doctor will carry out a physical examination focusing on the injury site. They may also ask about psychological symptoms. Expect questions about your pain, mobility, treatment history, and the impact on your daily life.

Can I take someone to the exam with me?

Yes, but you should notify the medical centre in advance. The person must remain a passive observer and cannot take part in the exam.

How long will the medical take?

Most assessments last around 30 minutes. Serious or complex cases may take longer. The exam may feel short as the expert is completing a structured assessment rather than acting as your treating doctor.

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What should I do before the medical?

Write down how your injury happened and how it has affected your work, hobbies, daily activities and ability to care for others. Taking notes will help ensure you cover everything during the appointment.

Will the medical be carried out near me?

Yes. Your solicitor can arrange an appointment close to your home. If you cannot travel, the exam may be carried out at your home.

Will the expert need access to my medical records?

Yes. The expert will need access to your records to review pre-existing conditions and assess your injury fully. You will usually sign a release form at the start of the claim. Refusing access is possible, but it could harm your case.

Will I receive a copy of the report?

Yes. You will receive a copy to review. If it contains errors, your solicitor can request amendments from the expert.

Is the report confidential?

Yes. The report will not be shared without your permission. Your solicitor and, later, the defendant’s solicitor will only receive it once you approve.

Will I have to pay for the exam?

No. Medical assessments are free for claimants. The cost is covered and later recovered from the defendant’s insurer if your claim succeeds.

FAQs about medicals in injury claims

• Do I still need a medical if I’ve already seen my GP?
  Yes. A GP’s notes are helpful but a medical report must be carried out by an independent specialist for use as legal evidence.
• Do I need a medical if I have already recovered?
  Yes. The expert will still record the nature of your injury, how long recovery took and how it affected your life.
• What if my injuries worsen after the medical?
  Contact your solicitor immediately. A second medical may be arranged to reassess your condition before the claim is finalised.
• Can I keep my medical history private?
  You can restrict access, but this may weaken your case. The expert needs your full history to rule out other causes of your injury.
• Will I need more than one medical?
  Not usually. One exam is often enough, but in serious cases or where injuries develop over time, follow-up assessments may be required.

About the author

Chris Salmon is a legal commentator and co-founder of Quittance Legal Services. He has written extensively about workplace accidents, employment rights and the claims process. Chris's work has been cited in national media and he regularly contributes practical guidance to help injured workers understand their options.

More about Chris and WAAC

Last reviewed September 2025 by Chris Salmon

Have you been injured at work?

If you have been injured at work in the last 3 years, you may be able to claim financial compensation.

Find out more about making a work accident claim:

• Do you qualify?
• How much compensation could you get?
• How does No Win, No Fee work?

Read more: Work accident claim guide