January 27, 2025, Chicago Magazine
Incidental Findings Can Lead to Malpractice Claims
If the ordering practitioner does not follow up, an incidental finding may lead to patient harm and result in a malpractice claim. The Doctors Company has completed an analysis of medical malpractice claims against our members in which an incidental finding was identified as a contributing factor.
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Detecting and Addressing Incidental Findings
With the use of current imaging technology, it has become more common to find abnormalities, or “incidental findings,” that are unrelated to the reason the imaging was ordered. This review of closed claims from The Doctors Company examines factors that contribute to missed incidental findings and offers strategies to improve follow-up and prevent patient harm.
Cardiology Claims: February Malpractice Risk Review
Understanding malpractice risk in cardiology requires examining both how patient harm occurs and why negligence allegations arise.
AI in Healthcare: Get Expert Insights
Artificial intelligence (AI) has potential to be a powerful ally for healthcare professionals in ensuring the delivery of high-quality care—while also creating potential new patient safety risks. Hear from experts nationwide on the critical issues around AI.
Professional Education
Failure to Diagnose Congenital Asplenia Results in Tragic Patient Outcome
(Claims Corner CME)
Referral process system failures can contribute to delayed diagnosis of serious conditions which can lead to severe consequences for patients. Problems can arise when referral is needed but is not initiated properly or timely, when the specialist does not ensure their recommendations are fully and clearly communicated back to the referring clinician, when the referring clinician does not understand or act on the specialist’s recommendations, or when the referring office fails to track their open referrals to ensure they have received all consultation reports. This program will examine a malpractice case involving all the above referral-related deficiencies, leading to a catastrophic result for the patient and significant liability for the involved clinicians. Risk management strategies will be provided for any practice to improve the referral process and to prevent similar tragedies from occurring.
Dec 09, 2024
Is Your Patient a Victim of Human Trafficking?
Although trafficking victims rarely find opportunities to interact with others, a visit to a physician or dental practice may provide an opportunity for a victim to receive help. Learn to recognize the signs of human trafficking and know what steps to take.
Prevent Wrong-Tooth Dental Procedures
Wrong-site procedures are a common problem in dentistry. A wrong tooth extraction can be prevented with the use of proper protocols, including confirmed communication with referring dentists and documentation of verbal discussions with patients.
Video Nov 19, 2024
Working Continuously to Balance the Scales of Justice
Is your professional liability insurance provider dedicated to protecting your career? In today’s healthcare environment, doctors, medical practices, advanced practice clinicians, and health systems need an advocate—a resolute voice loud enough to be heard. The Doctors Company and TDC Group are relentlessly committed to supporting medical liability reform and to safeguarding access to patient care.
Quick Check Tools: Improve Your Practice Processes
Our easy-to-use Quick Check tools can help your practice identify processes that need to be updated. Each printable checklist also includes a resource list and contact details for additional guidance.
Physician Assistants and Teamwork
While delivering high-quality care, PAs can increase patient safety and mitigate liability risks by committing to teamwork. We can use structured communication tools and escalate when necessary. We can also seek and offer mentorship to foster career-long development.
