This month, the U.S. Supreme Court chose not to hear a case that challenged the legal precedent that prohibits military personnel from filing medical malpractice lawsuits against the military. The decision was not unanimous. Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Clarence Thomas -- who often aren't on the same side of Court decisions -- both voted to let the case move forward.
How a little compassion can improve doctors' and patients' lives
Most everyone would prefer a doctor who displays empathy, support and kindness over one who is all business. That's particularly true if we're dealing with a serious medical issue or are simply anxious and uncertain about our health and our future.
Should we care about the emotional impact of errors on doctors?
If you have been harmed by a doctor or other medical provider's error or negligence, you're rightly focused on how it's impacted you. You aren't likely to consider that doctor or other medical professional a victim -- particularly if you're taking legal action against them. However, the medical community has begun addressing something called the "second-victim phenomenon" and recognizing how these health care professionals are impacted when they make an error that harms someone.
Why are women more likely to be misdiagnosed than men?
It's easier than ever for women to find a female doctor. Often, they think that another woman will take them and their medical issues more seriously than a male doctor. However, female patients are still more likely to be misdiagnosed or to not have their medical conditions recognized at all than male patients.
When do doctors and nurses think it's okay to lie to patients?
Most people assume that doctors and other medical providers are obligated to tell patients and family members the truth. After all, how else can we make informed decisions about our health care? Therefore, a recent poll of doctors and nurses (including advance practice registered nurses) may be unsettling. The website Medcape surveyed 286 doctors and 362 nurses.
Can a psychologist be sued for malpractice?
Psychologists typically have fewer malpractice suits filed against them than medical doctors who treat people for physical ailments and diseases. (Note that psychiatrists are also medical doctors and can prescribe drugs.)
Is your doctor guilty of 'manterrupting?'
We all know people who constantly interrupt. They think they know what we're about to say, so they finish our sentences for us. As we're speaking, they're reminded of something that impacts them, so they hijack our story and tell their own. Often, they're not even listening to us. They just interrupt and take over the conversation.
Inaccurate diagnoses are more common than you might think
We know that doctors sometimes misdiagnose conditions. In the more serious cases, they may tell a patient they have a mild condition when it's actually something very serious and potentially fatal without proper treatment.
Multiple factors make the holidays riskier for hospital visits
With the holidays upon us, many of our physicians are taking long vacations. A number of experienced physicians in hospital emergency rooms and urgent care centers may be doing the same. This can leave patients who fall off a ladder hanging Christmas lights or crash their brand new mountain bike over the holidays in the hands of less experienced health care providers or waiting long periods to be seen by anyone.
Why are sales representatives sometimes present during surgery?
You probably don't expect sales representatives to be in the operating room while you're undergoing surgery. However, if you're having a medical device inserted or replaced, there may be a rep there.
