Steps to Reduce Risk of Being Sued by Patient

Steps to reduce the risk of being sued by a patient:

(1) Avoid patients who are likely to sue or treat them with caution.

(2) Communicate clearly, carefully and securely.

(3) Be honest and try to build trust.

(4) Document carefully, completely and securely.

Features of a person who may be more likely to sue – someone who

(1) is hard to satisfy

(2) is inappropriately demanding

(3) knows other physicians or attorneys

(4) is upper middle to upper class

(5) shops for doctors

(6) has a history of suing other doctors

Communications should:

(1) be transparent

(2) encourage inquiries

(3) include apologies if necessary.