How often do you here the phrase, “I made a mistake. I’m only human.”? Does that phrase also insinuate “I’m not accountable?”
Every state has unique regulations that keep practicing doctors, teachers, and lawyers accountable for their decisions and actions. However, hearing that 2% of the nation’s doctors have been responsible for 50% of the total malpractice cases means that out of 100 cases, just two physicians committed malpractice 50 times. Who is regulating these doctors? When does a practicing doctor become “impaired” to the point that they are no longer safe to make decisions for a patients well-being?
As it stands now, only certain levels of medical staff and law enforcement are made aware of doctors’ potential misconduct or legal matters. Hidden behaviors might include drug and alcohol additions or sexual misconduct. More information is needed to empower patients when choosing a good doctor, to avoid tragic situations, and create a better system of accountability. As an article in The Consumer Report implies “State medical boards should include more consumer representatives. They are now dominated by physicians.” Until new standards are in place, here is a website to see how your state rates on patients medical safety, as well as, a list of recognized traits of the leading highest-performing practices around the country:
9 traits of the Highest-Performing Practices around the country:
- Careful About Overtreating – Doctors emphasize spending time with patients before rushing to tests
- Open to Complaints – Patient complaints are treated as valuably as compliments
- Extended Hours – Flexible schedules help patients avoid trips to the emergency room
- One-Stop Shopping – Top practices perform some relatively minor procedures that other practices often refer out
- Like-Minded Specialists, and Only as Needed – Patients are only sent to specialists who share the practice’s philosophies
- Two-Way Communication – Medical offices actively follow up through phone calls, repeat visits, or emails
- A Team Approach – Teams include an array of healthcare providers, including nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, nutrition counselors, and social workers
- A Fair Workplace – Physicians aren’t compensated solely on the number of patients they see
- Spend Wisely – Practices tend to avoid expensive, high-tech devices in favor of devices that encourage efficiency
As a team, we want to help you make fully informed medical decisions for you and your family. At Spiros Law, P.C., we meet one-on-one to empower our clients with the best solution when dealing with tragic injuries due to medical malpractice.
Not sure if you have a case or need legal support? Call us for a free consultation at (815) 929-9292.
