According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, 90% of all medical malpractice lawsuits are brought by patients who have suffered permanent injury, or by those representing someone who has died as a result of malpractice. Here six points are discussed for doctors to reduce the risk of being involved in a medical malpractice lawsuit as:
1. Establish a good relationship with patients
Research shows that doctors who show basic interpersonal skills such as listening and respecting the patient’s wishes can be just as important as clinical skills in preventing lawsuits. It's often the case that doctors who are regarded as good by their patients get sued less often.
2. Know the recognized standard of care
Knowing the recognized standard of care is crucial to protecting yourself in many lawsuits.
3. Ensure patient confidentiality
Privacy rules require that all patient information should be given directly to the patient and not be left with family members. The patient should be notified to call back or come to hospital in person for results.
4. Be prepared to apologize
Studies show that apologies to patients who experienced medical errors decreased the probability of legal action.
5. Protect yourself with medical malpractice insurance
It's important to ensure that you have the proper level of medical malpractice insurance for your specialty. This affords you strong protection in the event of a malpractice lawsuit. Also take advantage of the risk management services offered by your medical liability insurance company.
6. Follow up on all test results
Normal and especially abnormal results should be reported to all patients in a timely manner. Document that the patient was notified.
1. Establish a good relationship with patients
Research shows that doctors who show basic interpersonal skills such as listening and respecting the patient’s wishes can be just as important as clinical skills in preventing lawsuits. It's often the case that doctors who are regarded as good by their patients get sued less often.
2. Know the recognized standard of care
Knowing the recognized standard of care is crucial to protecting yourself in many lawsuits.
3. Ensure patient confidentiality
Privacy rules require that all patient information should be given directly to the patient and not be left with family members. The patient should be notified to call back or come to hospital in person for results.
4. Be prepared to apologize
Studies show that apologies to patients who experienced medical errors decreased the probability of legal action.
5. Protect yourself with medical malpractice insurance
It's important to ensure that you have the proper level of medical malpractice insurance for your specialty. This affords you strong protection in the event of a malpractice lawsuit. Also take advantage of the risk management services offered by your medical liability insurance company.
6. Follow up on all test results
Normal and especially abnormal results should be reported to all patients in a timely manner. Document that the patient was notified.
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