23 Jun 2025
A Decade of Insight: Dr Dan Bunstone Reflects on 10 Years with Speed Medical
As Chief Medical Officer and an established medicolegal expert, Dr Dan Bunstone is preparing to celebrate a remarkable milestone – his 10-year anniversary working alongside Speed Medical.
Over the past decade, Dan has witnessed major shifts in the medicolegal landscape and played a key role in evolving how expert medical reporting is delivered.
We caught up with Dan to reflect on how the industry has changed, what’s inspired him over the years, and where he sees the future of medico-legal work heading.
How has the medicolegal market shifted over the last ten years?
“There’s no question that the landscape has transformed,” Dan shares. “Being with Speed throughout this period has allowed us to build a genuinely excellent panel of experts. We audit, provide feedback, and support our experts to deliver the best possible clinical opinions.”
“When I first joined Speed in early 2008, we would receive instructions through the postal system, including bookings and amendment requests. Now, the portal streamlines the entire process, allowing us to manage and track cases efficiently and at scale.”
What does a typical working week look like for you?
“I could be consulting at the surgery, implementing projects at the Warrington Innovation Network, or presenting at a digital health conference. The diversity keeps things fresh and allows me to bring real value across all areas. I have a really strong network across the NHS and private sector, which is incredible, and enables me to support and be supported by some amazing people.”
Highlights from 10 years at Speed Medical
A key highlight for Dan has been working alongside Sam Hudson, who joined Speed at a similar time.
“Working closely with Sam Hudson on projects has been a real highlight for me. We’ve always shared a drive for innovation and improvement. Whether it’s rethinking internal processes or discussing broader industry challenges, I always look forward to Sam’s message asking, ‘Quick chat?’”
Where do you see the next ten years taking you?
“I’m passionate about helping people extend their health span – not just live longer, but live better. I see real potential in the intersection between proactive medicine and AI. Imagine predicting illness years in advance and tailoring personalised interventions using data-driven insights.”
“I'd like to be working at the interface of proactive medicine and AI. I find AI and the opportunities it holds really interesting, the possibility that we can do more than just treat disease, but also spot it and mitigate it, years in advance. AI could open the door to tailored interventions and treatments that offer a bespoke plan for each individual. “
Have you noticed any recent trends or shifts in medicolegal work for GPs?
“The evolution and expansion of Medco has systematically changed the way reporting is undertaken...”
“The reforms that have been implemented have changed the market significantly and what exist now is almost unrecognisable to 15 years ago. Some things are for the better, but I think it would be difficult to argue that all the changes have been positive.”
Drawing on your experience and expertise – do you believe new innovations in the medicolegal sector, such as advancements with AI, have a place in the role of an expert?
“I think the future will undoubtedly involve AI in one capacity or other” Dan predicts.
“As things stand, it doesn't seem like AI will replace clinicians, but clinicians who use AI might well replace those who do not. Given where the AI advancements are, dealing with arguably much more complex presentations of undifferentiated disease, and reaching the correct diagnosis, then it doesn't seem a stretch to consider that assessments of certain case types may well be possible with prognoses generated from input information.”
“That may well sound crazy, but so did driverless cars 10 years ago. I think that even if the capability exists for this to happen, there are sufficient politics and safeguards at play to ensure that it is unlikely to happen, at least in the short to medium term.”
What's your favourite part about your role?
“I have two,” Dan says. “First, the chance to effect meaningful change within the organisation. Second, the interaction with experts – providing feedback, discussing clinical judgement, debating grey areas. I often learn as much from them as they do from me.”
What advice would you offer to other GPs interested in pursuing medicolegal work?
“I’d strongly encourage any GP considering medicolegal work to take the leap and give it a try,” Dan said.
“It’s a fantastic way to diversify your career and bring fresh challenges and perspectives to your practice. You also gain valuable opportunities to learn from colleagues and broaden your professional portfolio. One thing I’d really highlight is the importance of support – working with an organisation like Speed Medical offers a level of guidance and resources that you simply don’t get when going it alone.”
Looking back – and forward!
Ten years on, Dan continues to shape the future of Speed Medical and the wider medicolegal sector.
With a passion for innovation, a firm belief in proactive healthcare, and a commitment to excellence, his journey reflects both personal growth and sector-wide transformation.
“There’s still so much potential to unlock. I’m excited to see where the next 10 years take us.”
For more information, please visit www.speedmedical.com, contact our team via email at info@speedmedical.com or call us directly on 0330 094 8749.
