Strategies to Reduce the Risk of Medical Malpractice Claims against Hospitalists

Abstract

The hospitalist system has recently been implemented in Korea. Claims against hospitalists may become a new medicolegal issue, as the number of medical malpractice claims is increasing. Hospitalist medical malpractice cases frequently involve more severe patient injuries than those involving claims against other physicians, and these cases frequently involve errors in clinical judgment and communication. Doctor-patient relationship issues, poor communication skills, and physicians at high risk of malpractice claims are risk factors for medical malpractice claims against hospitalists. Strategies to lower the risk of medical malpractice claims against hospitalists include empathetic communication with patients, standardized handoffs or discharge summaries, direct and close communication with outpatient physicians, and timely referral and consultation. Hospitalists will soon have a significant impact on inpatient care in Korea.