ISTANBUL PROTOCOL DOCUMENTATION FORM FOR PRISON MEDICAL SERVICE IN GEORGIA

Abstract

Istanbul Protocol implementation requires analysis of current legal norms and methodologies in forensic medical practice. Of most importance are the changes in methodology of effective medical documentation in different medical settings, including civil and parallel healthcare systems. Both retrograde and forward current evaluations of the forensic documentation practice was performed. Systemic SWAT analysis was performed with the scope of implementation of Istanbul Protocol standards. Several gaps and weak points were noticed and analyzed in forensic medical documentation in prison medical service of Georgia. Of special interest was examination and documentation of injuries of detained individuals that must be prompt and thorough; regulations related to the forms of forensic evaluations, medical interview and examination practice, informed consent for forensic medical examinations and so on.

Challenges in forensic medical documentation were addressed, especially, the challenges of informed consent, comprehensive medical examination more than just dermatological evaluations, confidentiality of information, prompt forensic medical evaluations, forensic medical opinion forming and interpretation of medical findings. As part of the IP implementation activities in Georgia, the special documentation form for prison medical service was introduced.