A nurse paralegal is a legal advisor who specializes in medical or health-related issues. She advises clients in both the public and private sectors on a regular basis. Her job could be a full-time, permanent position with a specific company, or she could work as an independent contractor.
Companies that use nurse paralegals typically believe their knowledge and experience is more useful than combining the testimony of a legal expert and a registered nurse. A skilled nurse paralegal can usually read a document or narrative relating to a medically-related claim or issue faster than a general practice attorney and assess its merit. Her legal understanding and interpretation of medical terminology and medical industry jargon is widely credited for this.
A nurse paralegal’s services are typically used by a diverse range of businesses and organizations. Her expertise is frequently used by medical journals to assist in the editing and writing of articles that are clear, concise, and free of any conflicting language or ideas. Insurance companies frequently ask her to provide an expert opinion on documents pertaining to malpractice claims. Health maintenance organizations (HMOs) may also hire her to interpret contracts involving patient and physician disagreements.
A nurse paralegal is frequently called upon to testify in legal and court cases involving medical malpractice, personal injury lawsuits, and workers’ compensation claims. She could be called upon to assist the prosecution or defense in their respective cases. Her comments are usually classified as expert witness testimony.
Companies may also benefit from the assistance of a nurse paralegal in preparing for negotiations and discussions. These could be public hearings in a court of law or private consultations held in a company’s secure boardrooms. Her responsibilities typically include reviewing medical records and charts, researching relevant legal issues and precedents, and interviewing parties involved.
A nurse paralegal’s objectivity is generally regarded as a plus. She is frequently required to research both sides of an issue in order to fully assess the situation’s legal and medical implications. She is usually required by law to present facts in official court cases that are free of her personal opinions or experiences.
A registered nurse’s degree is usually required for this position. A two-year associate’s degree, a four-year bachelor’s degree, or a nurse paralegal certificate are typically required to qualify for the position. Certifications in the field of paralegal nursing are highly sought after. Working as a nurse paralegal typically requires several years of experience as a registered nurse.