Medical Malpractice Insurance News

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.

MLMIC encourages policyholders to review these important Risk Management Checklists on medication management, specifically, handling prescription medication to maximize patient safety. Be sure to view or download the checklist for use in your dental practice.

New research indicates there are not significant differences in clinical outcomes or overall experiences between post-surgical patients who receive narcotics and those treated with over-the-counter NSAIDs.

The Biden-Harris Administration recently released its Statement of Drug Policy Priorities to continue the effort to end the opioid epidemic. The list works in tandem with the American Dental Association’s similar goals to curb opioid use. Knowledge about opioid prescription misuse is crucial for dentists, who prescribe 1 in 10 opioid prescriptions in the United States.

A troubling percentage of long-COVID patients are using opioids to address the scope of symptoms that can cripple one’s health for months after a diagnosis.

ECRI’s 2021 list of patient safety concerns can help health systems effectively identify, prioritize and respond to patient safety threats.

Patient noncompliance is one of the most difficult challenges for healthcare providers. Noncompliance may include missed appointments and the failure to follow a plan of care, take medications as prescribed, or obtain recommended tests or consultations. Review this Risk Management Tip from MLMIC to reinforce related policies and protocols within your practice or facility.

Experts say patient-centric opioid intervention before discharge from the hospital can cut overall opioid intake, while still ensuring a patient is satisfied and their pain is properly managed.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an emergency use authorization for simultaneous administration of monoclonal antibodies bamlanivimab and etesevimab to treat COVID-19 patients who meet specific criteria.

ISMP says common medication mishaps can be prevented with proper attention and prioritization that results in system and practice changes.