How Doctors Can Prevent Malpractice Lawsuits
According to one study, it’s likely that over 250,000 deaths are caused by medical error each year in the U.S. This astounding number illuminating the importance of preventing medical malpractice. It’s not just an issue of liability — it’s a threat to the wellness and lives of innocent people. Unfortunately, many doctors are unaware of the best practices for reducing malpractice risk, and this can lead to patterns of errors that gravely injury their patients. Insurance agents who insure medical professionals should be proactive in educating their clients about the following four strategies.
Maintain Effective Communication
Communication is a major component of patient care, but many medical providers fail to verbalize the information that patients are seeking from them. In some cases, communication is outsourced to nurses, test result providers, and others who are removed from a patient’s direct care experience. It’s important to take every opportunity to communicate directly with patients, ask them if they have any questions, and explain what they should expect from their care. Miscommunication — or lack of communication — is an avoidable cause of many malpractice claims.
Establish Positive Relationships
Many patients feel that they lack an established relationship with their medical care providers, including primary care doctors. This can be a disenfranchising feeling, and it can contribute to an environment where patients feel as though they are mistreated. It’s important to establish positive relationships with patients through personal communication, bedside manner, and positive interactions. This can make a huge difference in a patient’s perception of a medical professional and minimize the likelihood of malpractice claims.
Be Thorough at Every Step of Care
Unfortunately, there are many medical errors that happen as a result of sloppiness. Nobody can blame medical professionals for being overstressed and overworked, but despite difficult conditions, a provider must be thorough before, during, and after every appointment. This means that they must review patient information and charts before seeing them, and follow up on test results and appointments to ensure patients are getting the care they need. Overlooking these basic responsibilities may seem like no big deal, but it can become a form of negligence if it is not eventually addressed.
Keep Complete and Accurate Records
Keeping accurate and thorough records is a medical provider’s best defense against any claim of professional liability. In the event that a claim does arise, records are often the first document considered in the case. It’s imperative that a medical provider document all details of a patient visit, including the reason for the visit, the patient’s general health, and any questions that were asked — and answers provided — during the appointment. These details are important to protect against any potential claims of negligence or other claims of harm.
About Coastal Oak Insurance Services
At Coastal Oak Insurance Services, we strive to protect your personal and business assets from coast to coast. When you work with us, you’re family. Contact us today at (949) 519-3738 to learn more about how we can provide you with comprehensive and tailored insurance coverage.
