The Doctor’s Advocate | First Quarter 2019
Innovations in Patient Safety
Improving Communication and Managing Patient Expectations to Reduce Risks
Our video series highlights how doctors nationwide are using the data-driven insights from our closed claims studies to improve patient safety in their practices or hospitals. Our vast database of claims gives us an unparalleled understanding of the most common patient allegations and factors contributing to injury, and our specialty-specific studies help shine a light on risks others don’t see.
This quarter, we feature Douglas W. Lundy, MD, MBA, an orthopedic trauma surgeon at Resurgens Orthopaedics in Atlanta, Georgia, who describes changes his practice made to improve patient safety based on the data and recommendations in The Doctors Company’s Orthopedics Closed Claims Study.
The study revealed that most claims against orthopedists reflect patients’ perception of care, rather than the quality of care. Many lawsuits stem from known complications of procedures. Orthopedists can reduce liability by improving communication and managing patient expectations.
As a result of the study, Dr. Lundy’s practice reviewed its internal process and risk management guidelines. It now seeks to better inform patients of potential complications, and it has adopted secure email to enhance communication with patients. Also, the practice’s electronic health record system has been better utilized to inform patients of potential risks and provide appropriate postoperative treatment.
Watch this video for Dr. Lundy’s insights on improving patient safety and reducing risks.
Learn More
Read our Orthopedics Closed Claims Study at thedoctors.com/orthopedicsstudy.
The Doctor’s Advocate is published by The Doctors Company to advise and inform its members about loss prevention and insurance issues.
The guidelines suggested in this newsletter are not rules, do not constitute legal advice, and do not ensure a successful outcome. They attempt to define principles of practice for providing appropriate care. The principles are not inclusive of all proper methods of care nor exclusive of other methods reasonably directed at obtaining the same results.
The ultimate decision regarding the appropriateness of any treatment must be made by each healthcare provider considering the circumstances of the individual situation and in accordance with the laws of the jurisdiction in which the care is rendered.
The Doctor’s Advocate is published quarterly by Corporate Communications, The Doctors Company. Letters and articles, to be edited and published at the editor’s discretion, are welcome. The views expressed are those of the letter writer and do not necessarily reflect the opinion or official policy of The Doctors Company. Please sign your letters, and address them to the editor.
First Quarter 2019
An Ounce of Prevention
Preview Our Study of Malpractice Claims Involving Children
Government Relations Report
2019 Brings Increased Legislative Activity
New Advanced Practice Provider Guide
Innovations in Patient Safety
Improving Communication and Managing Patient Expectations to Reduce Risks
Drive Practice Improvements with Our Continuing Education Courses
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