Our blog frequently covers issues related to malpractice insurance coverage, but less frequently looks at some ways doctors and medical clinics can reduce their professional liability exposure. We did examine whether a ban on ties and jewelry could lower malpractice insurance premiums, but today we’ll analyze additional practical measures that could save you money, time, and hassle over the course of your career.
Perhaps the most important and simplest step, is to apologize to patients who you accidentally injure. This courteous act could reduce the number of malpractice claims filed against doctors by up to 40 percent, according to a study in the Annals of Internal Medicine. On a very simple level, physicians who are seen as “nice” by their patients are sued less frequently than those who are not. Unfortunately, honesty and transparency are not always traits that patients affiliate with their physicians.
However, before apologizing you should investigate whether what you say can be used against you as evidence of an admission in a medical liability lawsuit. Over half of all states, including Massachusetts, California, Florida, and Texas, have so-called “I’m Sorry” laws that limit the extent to which a physician’s apology may be used against him or her in court. It is also worth noting that while an apology may not be admissible, a full admission of fault may be. Accordingly, physicians should make sure they understand the ramifications of their apologizing to patients before deciding whether to implement such a policy.
If you have questions about the effect of an apology to a patient in your state, contact Malpractice Insurance Agency. We are a licensed medical liability insurance broker in all states and have the expertise to advise you regardless of which state you practice in. Whether you have questions about your current coverage, want to know what other options may be available, or even need locum tenens medical malpractice insurance, our agents can guide you. Contact us at 800.217.4020 or request quotes online today!
