Pathology

Aug 19, 2019
Electronic Health Records Continue to Lead to Medical Malpractice Suits
Darrell Ranum, JD, Vice President of Patient Safety and Risk Management
We analyzed 216 medical malpractice claims that closed from 2010 to 2018 in which EHRs contributed to patient injury. The pace of these claims grew, from a low of seven cases in 2010 to an average of 22.5 cases per year in 2017 and 2018. As EHRs approach near-universal adoption, they may become a more prevalent source of patient safety risk.

Professional Education
Dementia Q&A: What Physicians Ask About Diagnosis and Treatment
The Alzheimer's Project Series
This course focuses on the common concerns and questions expressed by physicians about dementia and cognitive impairment. This course covers making the initial observation of cognitive decline and beginning a conversation with older adult patients; overcoming common barriers to making a definitive diagnosis of dementia; and managing the ongoing clinical needs of patients experiencing dementia.
1.5 Credits

Professional Education
Physical Examination and Its Impact on Outcomes
The Doctor's Advocate
Advancements in technology improve the timeliness and accuracy of many diagnoses but the technology does not replace a thorough physical examination. For some diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease, herpes zoster, cellulitis, and Bell’s palsy the PE is the only diagnostic tool available. This short course makes the case for reversing the downward trend for physical examinations.
0.75 Credits

Professional Education
Psychiatry: Preventing Adverse Outcomes
The Doctors Company study of closed claims reveals areas of higher risk in outpatient psychiatry practices. Using this as a foundation, the course provides information to evaluate your practice and make changes to improve decisions about treatment, operational processes, reporting, and documentation.
1.5 Credits

Professional Education
Pathology: Reducing Malpractice Claim Risks
By recognizing the risks associated with their specialty, pathologists can bring about changes that result in faster, higher-quality, and safer care. This course requires reading six pathology-related articles published by The Doctors Company, answering a series of questions, and reflecting on changes that could reduce risks and improve care in your practice setting.
1.0 Credits

Apr 05, 2018
The Pathology Report: Reducing Malpractice Risk
David B. Troxel, MD, Medical Director, Board of Governors.
It is essential that the pathology report accurately document everything that a pathologist does with regard to evaluating and diagnosing a specimen—and it is particularly important to document the rationale for critical decision making.

Mar 23, 2018
Requests for Pathology Specimens
David B. Troxel, MD, Medical Director, Board of Governors
This article provides guidelines for pathologists regarding requests for specimens.

Jun 01, 2013
Interactive Guide for Hospitals: Clinical Departments: Pathology/Laboratory
Pathology/laboratory services can have areas of potential malpractice exposure, and this guide can help uncover risks.