Such a relationship does require time - but this is time well spent. The hospital has patient advocates who are often approached by the patient or family with complaints or concerns. These individuals are usually able to identify problems in communication which can be expeditiously managed. There is a Risk Management Coordinator operating out of the Office of Legal Counsel for the hospital. This person can advise you before a problem becomes serious enough to consider malpractice.
Most suggestions are common-sense but worthy of implementation.
If you find yourself, a colleague, an attending or other professional person engaging in activities which may eventually be considered malpractice, it is your moral and legal responsibility to report this activity. You can approach another attending, the chairman or vice-chairman of the Department, the risk management coordinator or the hospital lawyers. Should you be contacted by a lawyer or paralegal for comments regarding a patient s care, do not respond. Report the incident immediately to the chairman s office. The Department has legal counsel on retainer available on short notice if necessary for appropriate advice.