The Medical Reporting Organisation (MedCo) system remains one of the most important regulatory frameworks governing medico-legal reporting in England and Wales. Originally introduced to bring transparency and independence to the selection of medical experts in personal injury claims, MedCo has undergone significant evolution since its inception. As we move through 2026, both solicitors and claimants should be aware of the latest developments and how they impact the claims process.
What Is MedCo and Why Does It Matter?
MedCo is the portal through which solicitors and authorised users select medical reporting organisations to provide independent medical reports for personal injury claims. The system was designed to ensure that the choice of medical expert is genuinely independent, removing any commercial bias from the referral process. Every accredited MRO listed on the portal must meet strict quality and compliance standards, including adherence to CPR Part 35, clinical governance protocols, and regular auditing requirements.
For claimants, this means the medical expert preparing their report has been selected through a regulated and transparent process, providing confidence in the independence and accuracy of the assessment.
Key Changes and Updates in 2026
MedCo has introduced several updates this year aimed at strengthening quality controls and improving turnaround times across the sector. Among the most notable changes is the enhanced audit framework for MROs, which now includes more frequent compliance checks and stricter penalties for organisations that fail to meet reporting deadlines. The portal has also been updated to improve the user experience for instructing solicitors, making it easier to track report progress and communicate directly with the assigned MRO.
Additionally, MedCo has placed greater emphasis on the qualifications and ongoing training of medical experts, particularly those providing reports in higher-value and multi-track claims. This shift reflects a broader industry push toward ensuring that the experts involved in complex cases have the appropriate specialisms and current clinical knowledge.
What This Means for Solicitors
For personal injury solicitors, these changes underscore the importance of working with an MRO that maintains consistently high standards. Firms should ensure their chosen reporting organisation is fully MedCo accredited, operates robust quality assurance processes, and has a panel of experts covering all relevant specialisms. Delays and compliance failures at the MRO level can have a direct impact on case timelines and client outcomes.
Solicitors should also be aware of the updated data-sharing protocols. MedCo now requires all MROs to adhere to strengthened GDPR-compliant data handling procedures, particularly around the storage and transmission of claimant medical records. This is an area where non-compliance can lead to significant regulatory consequences.
How Expert Medical Stays Ahead
At Expert Medical, we are fully accredited on the MedCo portal and committed to exceeding the minimum standards set by the framework. Our internal quality assurance team conducts regular audits of every report before it is delivered, ensuring CPR Part 35 compliance, clinical accuracy, and clear, court-ready language. We maintain a nationwide panel of over 300 verified medical experts covering every relevant specialism, from orthopaedics and neurology to psychiatry and pain management.
Our average turnaround time for initial medical reports is among the fastest in the sector, and we provide real-time case tracking so instructing solicitors always know the status of their reports. Whether you are handling a straightforward RTA soft tissue claim or a complex multi-track case, Expert Medical delivers the independent, reliable reporting that solicitors and their clients depend on.
If you would like to learn more about how we work within the MedCo framework or wish to instruct us on a case, please get in touch with our team.