Medical Malpractice Insurance News

Providers must recognize that, at any time, a patient may make a complaint to the Office of Professional Medical Conduct alleging that he or she was the victim of a physician’s sexual misconduct. Having a chaperone present during intimate physical examinations may be beneficial to both the physician and the patient. Review this Risk Management Tip from MLMIC to reinforce related policies and protocols within your practice or facility.

MLMIC encourages policyholders to review attorneys’ answers to frequently asked questions on medical professional liability related to the National Practitioner Databank.

The management of chronic pain through the prescription of controlled medication poses challenges and risks to both the patient and the healthcare provider. Review this Risk Management Tip from MLMIC to reinforce related policies and protocols within your practice or facility.

Effective communication is the cornerstone of the doctor-patient relationship. Patients’ perceptions of physician communication skills may impact the potential for allegations of malpractice. Review this Risk Management Tip from MLMIC to reinforce related policies and protocols within your practice or facility.

MLMIC encourages policyholders to review attorneys’ answers to frequently asked questions on medical professional liability related to retention and release of medical records, including timeframes and authorizations.

The failure to properly handle and document after-hours telephone calls can adversely affect patient care and lead to potential liability exposure for the physician. Review this Risk Management Tip from MLMIC to reinforce related policies and protocols within your practice or facility.

MLMIC encourages policyholders to review these important Risk Management Checklists on office policies, including guidance on maintaining patient confidentiality, tracking test results, following up on missed or cancelled appointments, using chaperones or scribes and handling patient complaints.

Physicians’ offices may not be well equipped to accommodate patients of size. Providing a safe environment, while optimizing sensitivity to the needs of this patient population, will enhance patient care and minimize your exposure to claims of negligence. Review this Risk Management Tip from MLMIC to reinforce related policies and protocols within your practice or facility.

Medication samples are widely used in a physician’s office practice. A standard process should be in place for the proper handling, storage, dispensing, and disposal of medication samples. Review this Risk Management Tip from MLMIC to reinforce related policies and protocols within your practice or facility.

A well-defined process for following up on missed or cancelled appointment will help ensure continuity of care and enhance patient safety. Review this Risk Management Tip from MLMIC to reinforce related policies and protocols within your practice or facility.