The credible forensic psychiatric evaluation in multiple chemical sensitivity litigation.
The forensic psychiatrist must be able to perform a credible psychiatric evaluation and render a competent psychiatric opinion in hotly contested multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) litigation. Forensic psychiatrists are often requested to evaluate MCS claimants by third party payers, employers, lawyers, and government agencies regarding health care costs and disability payments, workers' compensation claims, unemployment benefits, workplace accommodation reimbursements for special housing and environmental needs, civil litigation, and other claims. The credible forensic psychiatric evaluation of MCS litigants is described using the multiaxial diagnostic system of DSM-IV. Forensic psychiatrists must avoid becoming polarized by the current MCS controversy. The ethical requirements of honesty and striving for objectivity can be met by keeping separate the roles of therapist and expert, staying abreast of the scientific literature regarding MCS, and understanding the role of the psychiatric expert in MCS litigation.
Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA.
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D004995:Ethics, Professional; D005104:Expert Testimony; D005555:Forensic Psychiatry / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D006801:Humans; D018777:Multiple Chemical Sensitivity / Q000175:diagnosis*; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales