Medical malpractice and gastrointestinal endoscopy.

Abstract

Medical liability is a perennial issue that most physicians will face at some point in their careers. Gastroenterologists routinely perform endoscopic procedures to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of their patients. Advances in endoscopic techniques and technology have accelerated movement of the field into a more surgical realm. These developments warrant consideration of pitfalls that may expose gastroenterologists to liability. This review will explore trends in malpractice facing gastroenterologists and offer strategies to deliver high quality and safe patient care. Despite being a procedure-oriented subspeciality, only a minority of malpractice claims against gastroenterologists are related to procedures. Diagnostic error is among the most prevalent reason for lawsuits. The consequences of malpractice are costly due litigation and indemnity as well as the increase in defensive medical practice. Improving diagnostic quality, optimizing informed consent, and enhancing patient-physician communication are important elements of risk mitigation. Understanding the important role that diagnosis plays in medical liability allows physicians to better evaluate risk and apply deliberate decision-making in order to practice confidently.