Medicolegal Issues
Pearls
Medical record documentation: What to do, and what to avoid
Medical record documentation serves as a reminder of previous discussions with patients and what happened during their visits, a reimbursement...
Cases That Test Your Skills
Hold or not to hold: Navigating involuntary commitment
In the ED, Mr. H is depressed and suicidal, but does not agree to voluntary hospitalization. What elements will factor into whether civil...
Evidence-Based Reviews
‘Med check’ appointments: How to minimize your malpractice risk
The safety and efficacy of these appointments depend on how they are set up.
Evidence-Based Reviews
Paraphilic disorders and sexual criminality
What to consider when caring for a patient with sexually deviant thoughts or behaviors.
Pearls
How to ‘cybersecure’ your practice
The health care sector is not immune from cybersecurity attacks (malicious attempts to access or damage a computer or network system).
Evidence-Based Reviews
Honor thy parents? Understanding parricide and associated spree killings
Knowing which factors are common among perpetrators could assist in prevention.
Evidence-Based Reviews
Service animals and emotional support animals: Should you write that letter?
Understand the ramifications before advocating for patients to have such animals
For centuries, animals, especially dogs, have assisted...
Evidence-Based Reviews
Confidentiality and privilege: What you don’t know can hurt you
Understand the exception in divorce and child custody cases and inform patients accordingly.
Evidence-Based Reviews
Avoiding malpractice while treating depression in pregnant women
Consider the risks of untreated mental illness as well as the risks of antidepressant exposure.
Commentary
Liability protection when practicing during a disaster: How the laws work
What you need to understand before offering to provide services during a disaster.
Pearls
Metadata, malpractice claims, and making changes to the EHR
Because we cannot change metadata, guidance on making corrections in EHR documentation can help to minimize liability in medical malpractice cases...