What is Treating Physician?
The doctor who provides ongoing medical care and treatment to an injured person, as opposed to a doctor who only performs an independent examination.
Understanding Treating Physician
The treating physician's testimony is often the most powerful medical evidence in a personal injury case because they have an established doctor-patient relationship and firsthand knowledge of the patient's condition, treatment, and progress. Their opinions about causation, diagnosis, and prognosis carry significant weight with juries and insurance adjusters.
Examples
- 1Orthopedic surgeon who performed surgery and monitored recovery
- 2Primary care physician documenting ongoing pain and limitations
- 3Physical therapist who treated the patient for six months
Related Terms
Defense Medical Exam
A medical examination arranged and paid for by the defendant or their insurance company to independently evaluate the plaintiff's injuries and medical claims.
Independent Medical Examination (IME)
A medical evaluation performed by a doctor who has not previously treated the patient, typically requested by an insurance company or employer to assess the injury claim.
Prognosis
A medical professional's prediction about the likely course, duration, and outcome of a patient's recovery from an injury or illness.
Medical Records Review
A detailed expert analysis of a patient's medical documentation to assess the nature and extent of injuries, the appropriateness of treatment, and the relationship between the accident and the medical conditions.
Impairment Rating
A percentage assigned by a physician that measures the degree of permanent physical impairment resulting from an injury, based on standardized medical guidelines.
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