The treating physician as expert witness

Abstract

Treating physicians frequently are called upon to offer expert testimony in litigation. Courts will usually require treating physicians to give testimony about the facts concerning-their treatment and care of the patient. Courts have reached varying conclusions as to the extent that a treating physician can be compelled to render opinions about the patient's condition and prognosis. Different jurisdictions have varying rules as to what compensation, if any, is required to be paid to a treating physician subpoenaed to testify in the absence of a contract between a physician and a party concerning such compensation. Testimony offered by treating physicians who qualify as medical experts must be found to be trustworthy by the court prior to being admitted into evidence.