Legal nurses perform a variety of duties depending on their environment. Professionals working for private attorneys or law firms often work on malpractice cases. They review current standards of care alongside summaries of medical records. Legal nurses also attend arbitrations and depositions, serving as expert witnesses and liaisons with healthcare providers.
Legal nurses who work for insurance companies focus on ensuring healthcare benefits get paid appropriately. They audit medical bills and act as case managers.
Those working in clinics, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities typically work in med-legal departments or in-house risk management sectors. These nurses collaborate with legal teams, investigate malpractice claims, review medical records, educate staff, and ensure cooperation and adherence to compliance and healthcare privacy laws.
Professionals in the legal industry, especially attorneys, can benefit greatly from legal nurses’ work. In addition to working for hospitals, insurance agencies, and law firms, these nurses can work from home, setting their own hours and determining their own incomes.