In the United States we've been experiencing some major changes in the health care system. There has been a great deal of debate about how this new system is going to affect people.
Suffice it to say that all the back and forth debate boils down to money. However, it got me thinking about the effect this will have on how medical professionals treat their patients. I also happen to have a new client who is an insurance broker specializing in medical malpractice insurance, so I've been learning about the new healthcare laws and how they affect malpractice insurance rates.
Because of this new health care system, there's a possibility that the workload for medical professionals may increase. On top of that they have to deal with increases in malpractice premiums. So I came up with some ideas on how medical professionals can create a better experience for their patients and avoid medical malpractice.
Here are my tips:
Communicate with your patient - Be open and honest with your patients. Let them know what exactly you will do to treat them. Be thorough when explaining any medical process they will need to undergo and make sure you have all the information you need from them. Help your patients make informed decisions by offering as much information as you can. Furthermore, part of communicating well with patients also includes promptly returning phone calls, preferably within 24 hours.
Keep good files and documentation - Make sure to maintain good records of patient visits and prescriptions.
Make patient care a priority - Although this may seem obvious, many doctors forget that their whole purpose is to make sure their patients are well taken care of. The hospital environment can be demanding and fast-paced, but don't be in a hurry to get patients in and out. Take your time with each patient and make sure to explain all the facts.
Be aware of current medical practices - Attend continuing education classes or become involved in professional organizations.
Are there any tips that you'd like to add?
Photo Credit: Seattle Municipal Archives
Good ideas about the medical experience. I've found working in the health care industry that good service in health care comes down to having a patient centered process that begins with communication and continues throughout the entire patient experience. It is also about giving patients choices in their care and choices in how they access the system. Health care is scary for people who have not been exposed to it and anything the health care provider can do to ease that uncertainty by explaining what to expect helps patients through the process. Good customer service in health care comes down to access, people skills, clinical expertise and communication. I agree it will be interesting to see how health care reform affects access and customer service.
most of the problems are limited to certain number of doctors and usually are repeated problems, clean doctors they don't have to worry much about physician malpractice insurance .quote. as their rate is notimpacted