Publications & Resources

Open Bar: New Federal Privacy Rules Start February 16, 2026

Question:  What do healthcare providers need to know about the new Federal Privacy Rules? Answer: The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has issued a final rule updating the federal regulations protecting the confidentiality of substance use disorder (SUD) treatment records to better align with HIPAA’s privacy standards. The goal of these changes is […]

The Verdict: Delay in Diagnosing Biliary Atresia in an Infant

When a new mother’s concerns are overlooked, the clinical and legal consequences can be profound. Host Tammie Smeltz, RPLU welcomes attorney Jonathan Erman, Esq., to The Verdict to dissect a case of missed biliary atresia in an infant and explain why “routine” symptoms deserve a closer look and immediate diagnostic action.

An Urgent Legal / Legislative Update from MLMIC

Below, MLMIC Chief Medical Officer Dr. John Lombardo shares news of Governor Hochul’s veto of the Grieving Families Act (GFA) New York Governor Kathy Hochul has just vetoed the Grieving Families Act (GFA), which would have provided new mechanisms for additional compensation to plaintiffs in wrongful death actions. Specifically, the legislation would have expanded the […]

The Verdict: The Power of MLMIC’s Legal Team

On this episode of The Verdict, host Tammie Smeltz, RPLU sits down with MLMIC Managing Attorney Nancy May-Skinner, Esq. They take a deep dive into the robust legal services available to MLMIC insureds, covering everything from legal risk management advice to representation at non-party depositions and trial testimony. MLMIC’s legal services are available to all policyholders at no […]

The Verdict: The Jury’s Out – Uncovering the Truth About Trials 

Host Tammie Smeltz, RPLU, and Roy Kaufman, Esq., explore what really influences jurors in malpractice trials and how dentists can strengthen their defense.

The Verdict: The Jury’s Out – Uncovering the Truth About Trials 

Host Tammie Smeltz, RPLU, and Roy Kaufman, Esq., explore what really influences jurors in malpractice trials and how physicians can strengthen their defense.

Medical and Legal Expertise Fail to Prevent Excessive Verdict 

An ER visit for calf pain led to an amputation and lawsuit. Despite expert support for the care provided, the jury issued an excessive verdict — showing that even strong defenses can’t always prevent unfavorable outcomes.

A Severe Infection Is Missed 

A missed infection led to life-threatening complications for a young dental patient, resulting in hospitalization, multiple surgeries and lasting scars. This case highlights the critical importance of timely referrals, thorough follow-up and clear documentation in preventing severe outcomes and mitigating liability risk.

The Verdict: The Fine Line: A Department of Health Investigation and the Patient-Physician Relationship

In this two-part episode of The Verdict, attorney Jonathan Erman joins host Tammie Smeltz to unpack Department of Health investigations and the role of the patient-physician relationship.

The Scope: Navigating the Pitfalls of Patient Texting

MLMIC is excited to debut the first combined issue of The Scope for both medical and dental providers. The Q3 2025 edition explores the risks of patient texting, a credentialing case study, a dental case gone wrong and more.