Malpractice Claims, Patient Communication, and Critical Paths

Abstract

Patient confusion and anger resulting from poor provider-patient communication are major factors giving rise to malpractice claims. This article uses the true story of Patient X to explore how communication issues contribute to claims. It also studies the motives of malpractice plaintiffs within the context of the scholarly literature. The article concludes that critical paths can play a positive role in ensuring timeliness, consistency, thoroughness, and patient comprehension of key communication. If used correctly, critical paths can address some of the root causes of malpractice suits.