Commenting on the publication of the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) Consultation on Revisions to the Medical Reporting Process for RTA Claims today (Tuesday 18 July 2023), Matthew Maxwell Scott, executive director of ACSO, said:
"It’s great this consultation has finally seen the light of day, the MoJ promised to publish it this time last year and it's unclear why there's been such a long delay. Like much of civil justice policy, progress is glacial and continuing delays do not improve access to justice.
"It's clear that the functioning of the MedCo framework needs review to ensure that medical reporting firms can continue to operate, and we welcome the opportunity to contribute to the consultation.
"We urge the MoJ to update fixed fees and disbursements, court fees and damages on a regular basis to reflect soaring inflation and sustain those who work on behalf of consumers in the civil justice system. To date, government policy here has been piecemeal at best.
"Nobody is asking for special favours, just fairness. If practitioners exit the market, consumers risk being left with nobody to turn to if they need help to navigate a complex legal process."
The MoJ consultation runs until 10 October and can be found at https://consult.justice.gov.uk/civil-law/rta-medical-reporting-consultation/