Psychiatric diagnosis and condition reports
An independent psychiatric evaluation of the claimant’s current condition: the diagnosis, the alternatives considered, how severe it is and how it affects daily life, with conflicting records and earlier labels explained. Free initial screening call and fixed fees with no hidden charges.
- Section 12(2) approved
- Claimant, defendant and SJE
- ICD-11 or DSM-5-TR stated
The diagnosis the case rests on
Every psychiatric opinion starts with the diagnosis, and many disputes turn on it. Dr Pradhan assesses the claimant’s current psychiatric condition, gives a diagnosis and a differential diagnosis, and explains why the alternatives are more or less likely on the history, the mental state examination and the records.
Records often use different labels over the years: anxiety in one letter, depression in another, personality difficulties in a third. The report considers diagnostic overlap, disputed chronology, inconsistent reporting and incomplete records, and gives an evidence-based opinion on the presentation actually seen in your case.
Dr Pradhan is GMC registered, a Fellow of the Royal College of Psychiatrists and section 12(2) approved.
What the report covers
Diagnosis and condition reports commonly address:
- The current diagnosis, and the classification used
- The differential diagnosis, and why alternatives were rejected
- Severity, and how it is measured
- Comorbid conditions, including substance misuse
- Earlier diagnoses in the records, and whether they were right
- The reliability of symptom reporting, and consistency across the records
- The effect on work, relationships, self-care and daily living
- Capacity, where a decision is in issue
- Risk of self-harm and safeguarding concerns, where relevant
- Treatment received, and the treatment now indicated
- Prognosis in outline, or in full where instructed
- Joint statements, supplementary questions and second opinions
Send the questions for the expert and a note of any earlier diagnoses, and Dr Pradhan will confirm the scope of opinion and a fixed fee.
Submit an enquiry
When the records disagree
Treating clinicians write for treatment, not litigation, and a diagnosis in the notes may have been provisional, made in a short appointment or carried forward without review. The report explains how each earlier diagnosis was reached, whether it is supported by the evidence, and how it fits the present presentation.
Where the claimant’s account differs from the records, the report sets out both, explains the clinical significance of the difference, and says how the opinion would change on each version of the facts.
Common diagnostic disputes
- PTSD or adjustment disorder
- PTSD or complex PTSD
- Depression or personality difficulties
- Anxiety disorder or understandable worry
- Physical or psychiatric explanation
- Substance-induced or independent disorder
Sources reviewed
- GP records
- Hospital and mental health records
- Psychological therapy notes
- Occupational health records
- Earlier expert reports
- Witness statements
Classification and independence
Diagnoses are made under ICD-11 or DSM-5-TR, and the report states which, so that the opinion can be compared with the other side’s expert and with the treating records. The expert’s duty is to the court, and the report is written for CPR Part 35 and Practice Direction 35 in England and Wales.
Reports for proceedings in Scotland and Northern Ireland are prepared to the requirements of those courts. Instructions are accepted from solicitors across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and worldwide.
ICD-11, the World Health Organization’s classification, came into effect in January 2022. DSM-5-TR, the American Psychiatric Association’s manual, was published in March 2022. The two differ on some diagnoses, including complex PTSD.
Related pages
Diagnosis questions
If your question is not answered here, call and Dr Pradhan will advise on scope and timescale.
Call 0121 752 6065The records show several different diagnoses. Which is right?
The report considers each, explains how it was reached and whether the evidence supports it, and gives the diagnosis that fits the whole history most closely.
Will the report say whether the claimant is exaggerating?
The report considers the reliability of symptom reporting and the consistency of the presentation with the records, and explains any inconsistencies. Findings on credibility are for the court.
Which classification does Dr Pradhan use?
ICD-11 or DSM-5-TR, depending on the case and the other evidence. The report states which and why.
Is a diagnosis report enough on its own?
Sometimes, for example where the diagnosis is the only issue. Most claims also need causation and prognosis, which can be dealt with in the same report.
How quickly can a report be delivered?
Usually 1–2 weeks from assessment, and urgent reports can often be provided in 2–5 working days where the papers and appointment can be arranged promptly.
Instruct Dr Pradhan for a diagnosis report
Send the questions for the expert, a note of any earlier diagnoses, the funding route and any relevant dates.
- Phone0121 752 6065
- Emailinfo@
doctorpradhan.co.uk - Consulting Rooms NationwideAbacus Court, Harborne, Birmingham B17 0HH
Please do not include medical records or a detailed personal history in this form. Dr Pradhan will confirm how to send the papers once the instruction is agreed.
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Instructions are accepted from solicitors only. Read our privacy policy before sending personal information.
If the matter is urgent, call 0121 752 6065.