Abstract

Complaints made against doctors are increasingly important given the current emphasis on consumerism in the National Health Service and the publication of the report of the Wilson Committee which reviews complaints procedures. There have also been recent changes in medical indemnity and increased litigation. The origins of complaints made against psychiatrists were studied. Most complaints were made by relatives and advocates rather than the patients themselves and half were made after the patient was discharged from hospital. It was found that most complaints arose out of a breakdown of communication between psychiatrist and patient.

Highlights

  • Complaints made against doctors are increasingly important given the current emphasis on consumerism in the National Health Service and the publication of the report of the Wilson Committee which reviews complaints procedures

  • Diagnostic errors, suicide and self injury were the main reasons for claims

  • Claims resulting from the use of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and psychotropic drugs represented 5% and 16% respectively of total psychiatric claims

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Summary

Introduction

Complaints made against doctors are increasingly important given the current emphasis on consumerism in the National Health Service and the publication of the report of the Wilson Committee which reviews complaints procedures. Complaints against psychiatrists: a five year study It was found that most complaints arose out of a breakdown of communication between psychiatrist and patient. Psychiatrists are among the greatest users of the medico-legal advisory services of the medical defence organisations but they are not the heaviest users when it comes to claims.

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Conclusion
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