Nearly one third of all medical malpractice cases can be directly linked to communication errors, according to a recent study conducted by CRICO Strategies, a division of the risk management group that insures Harvard-affiliated hospitals. The findings were based on analysis of more than 23,000 medical malpractice claims and lawsuits filed between 2009 and 2013. During that time, communication failures in hospitals and doctors’ officers contributed to the harm of 7,149 patients, including 1,744 deaths. The estimated cost to providers was $1.7 billion in medical malpractice payouts to injured victims and their families. There are several ways in which important medical information is shared and a breakdown in any one area can have devastating consequences. Whether shared face-to-face, over the phone or via a patient’s medical record, the information must be timely, accurate and accessible. When information is unreliable or not communicated effectively, there is a significantly high
http://www.lthlaw.com/2016/02/baltimore-medical-malpractice-lawyers-communication-errors/
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