University of Bolton hosts fascinating lecture by National Medical Examiner for England and Wales

The National Medical Examiner for England and Wales explored the relationship between emergency medicine and the coroner in a fascinating lecture hosted by the University of Bolton’s Centre for Contemporary Coronial Law (CCCL).

More than 200 people, both online and in person, joined the lecture, entitled ‘24 Hours in A&E: A Matter for the Coroner?’, presented by Professor Alan Fletcher.

Professor Fletcher's presentation detailed a day in a typical hospital Emergency Department (ED), spotlighting the intense environment and crucial decision-making moments faced by medical professionals.

Four individual cases, inspired by real life incidents, graphically demonstrated the complexities of coroner notification following deaths of people who had been involved in visits to an Emergency Department.

The hybrid format of the lecture allowed professionals, students, and enthusiasts from anywhere in the world to enjoy the presentation.

Professor Fletcher explored the interface between medical practice and legal procedures, emphasising the significance of coronial law in cases involving violence, trauma, neglect, or unexpected deaths. It provided valuable insights into the intensely demanding and fast-paced environment of Emergency Medicine.

The presentation was introduced by Professor Mohammed Abdel-Haq, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Postgraduate Developments at the University of Bolton and was attended by the University’s Chancellor, the Earl of St Andrews.

The event, chaired by Professor Christopher Dorries, Visiting Professor in the CCCL and retired HM Senior Coroner for South Yorkshire West, featured an eminent panel of experts: Rachael Griffin, Visiting Teaching Fellow in the CCCL and Senior Coroner for Dorset; Timothy Brennand, Senior Coroner, Greater Manchester West; Daisy Shale, Lead Medical Examiner Officer for Wales at NHS Wales and Dr Sue Duncan, University Registrar and Assistant Coroner for Greater Manchester West.

The lecture concluded with a thought-provoking analysis of the sample cases, questioning whether circumstances such as violence, neglect, or unexpected deaths qualified as matters for the coroner, leaving attendees with a deeper appreciation of the complexities of Emergency Medicine and the critical role played by the coroner.

Professor George E Holmes DL, President and Vice Chancellor of the University of Bolton, thanked Professor Fletcher for a “fascinating and massively informative lecture”.

He said: “The University of Bolton is proud to host the Centre for Contemporary Coronial Law and as a result of this lecture I am far more aware of the issues.”