Medico Legal at Gambia
The Gambia, the integration of medical and legal systems—collectively referred to as the medico-legal system—is structured through a combination of legislation, institutional frameworks, and professional oversight, ensuring the integration of medical and legal practices.
⚖️ Legal Framework
Inquests Act [Cap 46]: This Act mandates investigations into sudden or unnatural deaths, including those resulting from accidents, suicides, or suspected homicides. It outlines procedures for post-mortem examinations, reporting by medical officers, and the conduct of inquests by magistrates.
Mental Treatment Act [Cap 113]: This Act provides the legal basis for the involuntary commitment of individuals deemed to be of unsound mind. It details the roles of magistrates and registered medical practitioners in the apprehension, examination, and commitment of such individuals to mental health facilities.
Medical and Dental Practitioner Act 2010: This Act governs the registration, regulation, and professional conduct of medical and dental practitioners in The Gambia. It establishes the Medical and Dental Council, outlines disciplinary procedures, and sets standards for medical practice.
🏥 Institutional Framework
Medical and Dental Council of The Gambia (MDCG):Established by the Medical and Dental Practitioners Act 1988, the MDCG is a statutory body responsible for regulating the standards of training and practice of medicine and dentistry in The Gambia, The Council assesses and accredits medical and dental training facilities, reviews qualifications for registration, and maintains a database of registered practitioners
Attorney General of The Gambia:The Attorney General is a cabinet-level position responsible for providing legal advice to the government and representing it in court, The current Attorney General is Dawda A. Jallow
🧠 Training and Capacity Building
Forensic Anthropology Training In March 2023, The Gambia hosted its first Forensic Anthropology training, funded by the Royal College of Pathologists Australasia and the Victoria Institute of Forensic Medicine. The training aimed to enhance the understanding of medico-legal roles and responsibilities among forensic pathologists, biologists, histology and pathology technicians, and crime scene investigator.
The Gambia's medico-legal system is characterized by a collaborative approach among legal, medical, and forensic professionals, supported by a robust legislative framework.
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