Medical Malpractice Insurance News

A small portion of lawsuits brought alleging dental malpractice reach the threshold of “high severity,” which, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ (NAIC) definition, involve serious permanent disability or death. Get an overview of these cases, which are driven by the value or potential value of the injury alleged.

In a message from MLMIC Chief Medical Officer Dr. John Lombardo, Dr. Lombardo discusses the instance of a malpractice case that goes to jury trial, including words of reassurance and insights from his own experience. Read his note, which serves as an introduction to the Q1 2023 issue of The Scope: Dental Edition.

Coming to the decision to discharge a dental patient from care is not easy. No dentist wants or enjoys doing so, but there are times in the dental-patient relationship when changing dentists is in the best interest of both the patient and the dentist.

How long a patient has to sue a dentist for dental malpractice is governed by the statute of limitations. The application of the statute of limitations can be confusing and a source of misunderstanding. From a legal perspective, it’s very important for dentists to know the basics and realize its complexity so they can reach out to their dental professional liability provider when such questions arise.

It’s vital that dentists understand the importance of documenting consent in dentistry. The law and best practices require that informed consent be obtained before treatment begins on a patient. The failure to do so may result in malpractice liability.

Over the course of years of practice, a dentist may encounter an unsatisfied patient who requests a refund because of a cosmetic concern, discomfort or pain. Before granting that request, dentists should be aware of the potential consequences of that action. Our blog takes a look from a legal perspective.

The American Hospital Association says the guilty verdict for a nurse who made a medication error “discourages health caregivers from coming forward with their mistakes.” The trial raises important questions about electronic device management, alert overrides and provider burnout.

Throughout their years of practice, dentists will occasionally encounter a dental patient who refuses to take their professional advice. So, what is the best course of action for dentists to both prioritize patient safety and minimize liability?

While healthcare providers alone cannot erase health inequities, they can make a significant impact in advancing access to care and better health outcomes for all patient populations.

Two years into the pandemic, we have the benefit of research and experience to help dentists make informed decisions for their practices. Unfortunately, the end is still not in sight. New York State and the entire country are facing a surge of coronavirus cases due to the incredibly infectious Omicron variant. To help you handle the current situation, read our risk management best practices for dental offices during COVID-19.