Risky Business

Several strategies have proved successful to help prevent litigation. In general, hospitalists should make sure that their hospital has clearly delineated policies regarding responsibility for patients; clearly understand—and ensure that your coworkers, colleagues, and referring physicians understand—the hospital’s systems and protocols; exercise good communication skills; conform to the standard of care; know your own scope of care to the best of your ability; and exercise independent medical judgment, even when partnering with others. TH

Andrea Sattinger also writes the “Alliances” department for The Hospitalist.

References

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4. Shapiro RS, Simpson DE, Lawrence SL, et al.. A survey of sued and nonsued physicians and suing patients. Arch Intern Med. 1989;149:2190-2196.
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8. Cohen JR. Advising clients to apologize. Southern California Law Review. 1999;72:1009-1069.
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10. Greenwald L. Who's in charge? Perspectives on Clinical Risk Management. Boston, Mass: ProMutual Group Risk Management Services; Fall 2000.
11. Alpers A. Key legal principles for hospitalists. Am J Med. 2001;111:5-9.