I am aware of a possible adverse event that occurred under the care of another physician or health care provider. Should I provide disclosure to the patient directly?
The ethical and professional obligation to discuss an adverse event with a patient rests primarily with the most responsible physician (MRP) at the time of the adverse event. Focus on the needs of your patient as they now exist. Your comments should be limited to the facts you know and when you knew them. Refer your patient back to the other physician or other provider for a discussion of what happened previously. Notify the other physician or other provider that your patient will be seeking information. Patients do not benefit from speculation and innuendo. However, there are times when the quality of the care provided by another should be questioned, but addressed constructively. This is best accomplished through an established administrative process, for example notifying the chief of a department to review the care. Health care providers who comment on the care provided by others without knowing all of the facts and circumstances run the risk of being unfair to both patients and he
Related Questions
- I am aware of a possible adverse event that occurred under the care of another physician or health care provider. Should I provide disclosure to the patient directly?
- In the event of an accident or illness, what if it is not possible to consult a physician or a doctor?
- Do I have to make an appointment to see a health care provider (physician or nurse practitioner)?
