Managing Medical Malpractice Claims: Key Strategies and Tactics for Health Care Providers
What are five 5 ways to prevent professional malpractice based on effective communication skills?
5 Ways to Avoid Malpractice Lawsuits Establish Trusting and Open Relationships with Patients, Effective Communication is Key, Document the Patient’s Visit as Soon as Possible, Consider the Culture of Your Practice, Refer When Necessary
Managing Medical Malpractice Claims: Key Strategies and Tactics for Health Care Providers
Medical malpractice claims can be a major source of financial and operational disruption to health care providers. According to a 2016 report by the Inspectors General of both the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Justice, malpractice costs the healthcare industry an estimated $28.9 billion annually in payouts.
To manage malpractice claims, the following strategies and tactics can be used by health care providers:
Enforce Patient Safety Guidelines
Health care providers should implement patient safety protocols to ensure that all treatment procedures, medications and services are administered according to accepted standards of care. Establishing safety protocols is the first step in preventing costly medical malpractice litigation.
Implement Risk Policies and Procedures
Health care providers should take proactive steps to reduce risk and liability. This could include having a designated Risk Management Officer, who is responsible for tracking and managing risks, as well as inspecting and auditing for potential liability and compliance issues.
Conduct Regular Training and Education
Health care providers should regularly provide training and education to their staff and ensure that all personnel, from physicians to administrators, are well-versed in risk management, patient safety protocols and legal compliance.
Document Patient Interactions
Every health care provider should develop a system for accurately documenting all patient interactions, treatments, medications and services. This will not only provide an accurate record in the event of a malpractice claim, but also assist with quality metrics and risk management processes.
Purchase Adequate Insurance Coverage
Health care providers should consider purchasing medical malpractice insurance to protect against financial losses due to unexpected medical malpractice claims or settlements. It is wise to review insurance policies regularly to ensure they are up-to-date and adequate for the organization’s operations.
By using these strategies and tactics, health care providers can effectively manage medical malpractice claims and reduce their financial and operational exposure.
