Relation between negligent adverse events and the outcomes of medical-malpractice litigation
Article Abstract:
The severity of disability rather than proof of negligence appears to predict whether a plaintiff will be awarded damages in a medical malpractice suit. This was demonstrated by researchers who followed 51 malpractice cases for a 10-year period. Of 24 cases that involved no adverse events, 10 were decided in favor of the plaintiff. Thirteen cases involved an adverse event but no negligence and 6 were decided in favor of the plaintiff. Five of 9 cases involving an adverse event due to negligence were decided in favor of the plaintiff. However, 7 out of 8 cases involving disability were decided in favor of the plaintiff.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 1996
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The Institute of Medicine report on medical errors -- could it do harm?
Article Abstract:
The outcome of the Institute of Medicine's report on medical errors could be hazardous for the medical profession. The report estimated that between 44,000 and 98,000 Americans die every year in hospitals because of medical errors. However, many doctors will be unwilling to admit medical errors for fear of malpractice lawsuits. Any attempt to openly register and track medical errors must occur simultaneously with malpractice reforms. Also, people who read the report may incorrectly assume that doctors and hospitals are doing nothing to reduce the rate of medical errors.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 2000
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Collective bargaining by physicians -- labor law, antitrust law, and organized medicine
Article Abstract:
Congress may once again consider legislation to amend antitrust laws to exempt collective bargaining between doctors and managed care organizations. Doctors hope to use this power to reclaim their clinical autonomy and improve the quality of medical care.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 2001
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