Primary care providers (PCPs) routinely manage complex elderly patients who require elective surgery, and communication and care coordination issues are commonly noted among PCPs and consulting specialists. The Doctors Company analyzed closed claims where PCPs were held responsible for failures in surgical mismanagement, specifically preoperative clearance. That analysis is featured in our accredited education program that highlights the contributing factors identified in malpractice claims involving medical clearance and provides practice strategies for reducing liability risk.
Take this course to learn potential communication deficits in clinician-patient communication and how to incorporate an effective communication tool to reduce the risk of patient harm.
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.
