Patient negligence in healthcare systems: Accountability model formulation

Abstract

Being an element of healthcare malpractice, negligence resides as a threat to patient safety, a source of distress to healthcare providers, an economic burden, and an impediment to healthcare improvement. During an age where compliance becomes a necessity, accountability realization remains a hindrance facing the resolution of patient negligence cases. This manuscript intends to create a standardized and well-structured accountability model that tackles patient negligence in healthcare systems. A random sample of 41 hospitals (33 private and 8 public) – representing more than 25% of hospitals in Lebanon – was selected for participation in interviews discussing compliance and accountability against patient negligence in healthcare. Of the selected 41 hospitals, 21 interviews were approved and conducted with hospitals representatives (16 private and 5 public) covering around 13% of hospitals in Lebanon. The formulated model represents an unbiased approach in pinpointing accountability against patient negligence through choosing a suitable resolution system, deciding on sanctions, and determining compensations. Further testing of the model is recommended for verification of its applicability.