Understanding the professional and legal expectations for practising physicians
Safer care: Preventing adverse events
Improving patient safety and reducing risk in the office or hospital
Responding to adverse events
Disclosure to patients and reporting to relevant authorities
Legal proceedings
Understanding lawsuits, subpoenas, experts, testifying and handling stress
Complaints to Colleges and hospitals
Understanding and coping with investigations of a physician's practice or actions
Risks in clinical research
Recognizing legal and ethical issues for clinical researchers
Choose a topic
Choose a sub-topic
Negligence
Negligence and civil liability eLearning activity A successful claim of negligence or civil liability must establish the physician has breached the duty of care to a patient and this breach resulted in harm or injury. This eLearning activity explores the concept of negligence and civil liability including duty of care, breach of duty (or in Québec, fault), causation, and the role of the medical expert. (Nov 18, 2006) Earn CME credits
Delay in diagnosis of ACS Acute chest pain is a common, chief complaint in both an emergency department and family practice environment. Careful evaluation of the history, physical examination and ECG may provide valuable clues. In some cases, observation and further testing may also be advisable. (Dec 1, 2010)
Delegation and supervision of medical trainees Risk management considerations for supervising physicians, and supervised residents and other trainees. (Sep 1, 2008, Revised: Oct 21, 2008)
Aortic dissections: “Tearing” apart the data The diagnosis of aortic dissection may be complicated by an atypical presentation, but careful documentation and appropriate reassessment can reduce the associated risks. (Jun 2, 2008)
Specimen and Report mix-ups Pathological examination of a surgical specimen is the mid-point of a complex process involving many people. Mix-ups can occur at any point in the process, with adverse effects for patient and difficulties for health-care personnel. (Dec 1, 2007)
Limited health-care resources: the difficult balancing act The Courts expect physicians to provide appropriate care to patients, making use of available resources. Physicians can be discussing limitations with patients and may discuss concerns and options with other physicians and administrators. (Sep 1, 2007)
Cauda equina syndrome: A case for timely recognition and treatment Cauda equina syndrome is not common, but has the potential for serious and long-lasting disability. Knowing the symptoms and signs, examining the patient adequately, and obtaining timely and appropriate investigations and consultations may help to avoid the risk of disability. (Sep 1, 2007)
Warfarin and INR monitoring: Are you on target? When anticoagulation with warfarin is indicated, it is important for each treating physician to know the appropriate targets and to monitor INR appropriately. (Sep 1, 2007)
A case of kernicterus Kernicterus continues to occur. Recognition and appropriate monitoring of hyperbilirubinaemia may permit intervention to prevent this neurological condition. (Jun 1, 2007)
Abdominal aortic aneurysm in the emergency department The diagnosis of symptomatic abdominal aortic aneurysms is challenging. A review of medico-legal cases related to patients presenting with this diagnosis in emergency departments is presented, with risk management considerations. (Jun 1, 2007)
Scrotal pain may point to testicular torsion It is important to consider testicular torsion in young males presenting with abdominal or scrotal pain. (Sep 1, 2006, Revised: May 2, 2008)
If a patient relies on your professional opinion... Before giving advice on medical matters, even informally, physicians should be satisfied they have considered and documented the relevant information. (Mar 1, 2006, Revised: Aug 28, 2008)
Is the equipment working properly? When a patient complains of pain during a procedure, it is important to consider possible factors including equipment malfunction. (Mar 1, 2006, Revised: Aug 28, 2008)
Well-limb compartment syndrome Although most physicians are aware of the possibility of compartment syndrome following trauma to a limb, it may occur in other situations. (Sep 1, 2005, Revised: Sep 9, 2008)
More Telephone Problems A case illustrates why it is important to take a sufficient history during a telephone call. (Nov 1, 1998, Revised: Jan 1, 2011)
Urinary tract injury: A common complication A medico-legal case of urinary tract injury as a complication of pelvic surgery is described. (Jul 1, 1997, Revised: Jan 1, 2011)
House calls: What the courts have said House calls place the doctor in an unfamiliar situation where it may be more difficult to obtain a history or to perform a physical examination. (Mar 1, 1995, Revised: Feb 26, 2008)
Informed consent eLearning activity Obtaining valid consent is a legal obligation and documenting it contemporaneously contributes to a successful defence. This eLearning activity describes how valid consent is both voluntary and informed, and ideally results in a patient's understanding of the proposed investigation, treatment and alternatives. (Nov 18, 2006) Earn CME credits
Consent: A guide for Canadian physicians A primer to assist physicians to better understand and implement into practice the requirements of consent to treatment. It includes information on consent in emergency situations, capacity to consent, informed consent, informed discharge, and other topics. There is a section on treatment in Canada of U.S. and other foreign residents. (Jan 1, 2006)
End-of-life care - Support, comfort, and challenging decisions An exploration of consent for treatment decisions in the context of end-of-life care, providing high level guidance for physicians faced with difficult clinical situations in which a patient¿s or family¿s wishes for care do not align with those of the treating physicians. (Oct 4, 2011)
Is this patient capable of consenting? A discussion of consent issues that may arise when caring for adults with diminished mental capacity (competency). (Jun 23, 2011)
Privacy and confidentiality: Consent and the circle of care An overview of the obligations to protect the privacy and confidentiality of patients' personal health information, sharing information within the circle of care of providers, and the requirement for consent in sharing information in other circumstances. (Mar 17, 2011)
Age of consent for sexual activity and duty to report Changes to the Criminal Code have raised the age of consent for sexual activity. Physicians should be guided by legislation in each province and territory on their duty to report such activity to the appropriate authorities if there are reasonable grounds to believe the child is being abused. (Jul 2, 2010)
How to reduce the risks of dental injury Any medical procedure where instruments are inserted into the mouth may result in dental injury, despite appropriate care. This article provides advice about obtaining and documenting consent for such procedures, and what to do should a patient allege wrongful damage to the teeth. (Jun 2, 2010)
Third parties in the operating room Before permitting persons not a part of the surgical team to be present in the operating room, it is important to consider many issues, among them patient privacy and confidentiality, consent, and safety. (Dec 17, 2008)
Aminoglycoside therapy: Balancing risk versus benefit Aminoglycosides are effective antimicrobial drugs but can have serious adverse effects. Indications, alternatives, dose, duration and co-morbidities are some of the important considerations. (Dec 17, 2008)
Aminoglycosides — A fine balance Appropriate use of aminoglycosides requires awareness of the potential side effects and their symptoms. (Jun 2, 2008)
Tips to avoid trouble (tips 1, 2, 3) Care in communicating with patients may help to prevent misunderstandings about proposed treatment, care given by others, or unexpected events. (Sep 1, 2007)
Consenting to research Physicians undertaking clinical research are expected to obtain valid consent. (Dec 1, 2000, Revised: Jul 9, 2008)
Independent medical evaluations: be prepared There are a number of steps that can be taken to reduce the likelihood of patient dissatisfaction with Independent Medical Evaluation. (Dec 1, 2000, Revised: Nov 20, 2008)
Provincial counsel commentary:The Krever Inquiry An inquiry into the Canadian blood system recommended improved documentation and informed consent, and decreased allogeneic blood use. (Jan 1, 2000, Revised: Apr 10, 2008)
What's best? Informed consent A physician must provide certain information to patients in order to obtain "informed consent". (Mar 1, 1995, Revised: Jan 1, 2011)
Informed discharge eLearning activity Legal cases in which physicians were held accountable for not informing patients of the symptoms and signs that would have alerted the patients to seek further medical attention, referred to as an informed discharge discussion. (Jun 15, 2007) Earn CME credits
Follow up for "orphan patients" Physicians discharging patients in need of follow up care may have certain responsibilities. (Sep 1, 2008, Revised: Oct 21, 2008)
Informed Discharge Patients can better take responsibility for their own care if they are told how to recognize symptoms indicating the need for further medical attention. (Jun 1, 2006, Revised: Apr 22, 2008)
Delegation and supervision eLearning activity Medical trainees acquire hands-on experience when a supervising physician delegates tasks and increasing levels of responsibility to the trainee. This eLearning activity presents medico-legal case studies and tips to show how problems can be minimized if the delegation is appropriate and the supervision of the trainee is adequate. (Sep 30, 2008) Earn CME credits
Collaborative Care: A medical liability perspective Clinical care is increasingly provided by collaborative teams with the promise of better outcomes for patients. This document identifies potential medico-legal risks in collaborative care and proposes solutions to lessen those risks for patients and providers. (Aug 1, 2006)
Delegation and supervision of medical trainees Risk management considerations for supervising physicians, and supervised residents and other trainees. (Sep 1, 2008, Revised: Oct 21, 2008)
Relying on hospital staff Physicians can rely on hospital staff to carry out their own functions but are also expected to exercise appropriate caution. (Mar 1, 2008)
Clinic held liable for a sexual assault Ontario court decides that a medical clinic is liable for sexual assault committed by a technologist, who was an employee of the medical clinic. (Dec 1, 2005, Revised: Apr 15, 2008)
Privacy and confidentiality: Consent and the circle of care An overview of the obligations to protect the privacy and confidentiality of patients' personal health information, sharing information within the circle of care of providers, and the requirement for consent in sharing information in other circumstances. (Mar 17, 2011)
Encryption just makes sense Privacy legislation, regulatory policies and professional obligation require that CMPA members take reasonable measures to protect the privacy of their patients' personal health information. With the advent of electronic records, members should be cognizant that encryption can help secure personal health information and may be required by law. (Dec 1, 2010)
Age of consent for sexual activity and duty to report Changes to the Criminal Code have raised the age of consent for sexual activity. Physicians should be guided by legislation in each province and territory on their duty to report such activity to the appropriate authorities if there are reasonable grounds to believe the child is being abused. (Jul 2, 2010)
Reporting of gunshot and stab wounds Several provinces have legislation requiring hospitals and healthcare facilities to report gunshot wounds; some also require reporting of stab wounds. Physicians should be aware of the legislation in their jurisdiction and the policies and procedures in their facilities, and disclose only the information required to permit the hospital to fulfill its obligation. (Apr 28, 2009)
Third parties in the operating room Before permitting persons not a part of the surgical team to be present in the operating room, it is important to consider many issues, among them patient privacy and confidentiality, consent, and safety. (Dec 17, 2008)
Tips to avoid trouble (tips 7, 8, 9) Effective verbal or written communication with patients and with other health care professionals is a two-way process, and confidentiality is always an issue. (Jun 2, 2008)
Protecting sensitive electronic health information — think encryption Theft or loss of electronic devices containing patient information could breach privacy laws as well as breach patient confidentiality. Encryption and password protection can protect against both breaches. (Sep 3, 2007)
How do you protect privacy? There is a responsibility to protect patients' privacy. (Dec 1, 2006, Revised: Apr 22, 2008)
Office privacy compliance—part three Suggestions for handling patients' right to gain access and make corrections to their records. (Sep 1, 2005, Revised: May 2, 2008)
Office privacy compliance—part one Privacy legislation affects physician's collection, use and disclosure of personal information. (Mar 1, 2005, Revised: May 2, 2008)
Anatomy of a well-written note Avoid medico-legal difficulties by writing factual and objective notes. (Mar 1, 2005, Revised: May 12, 2008)
Responding to prescription fraud Considerations for managing suspected prescription or narcotic fraud, forgery or theft. (Mar 1, 2004, Revised: Jun 17, 2008)
Physicians and their patients' wills: issues to consider Physicians may be asked to attest to the capacity of a patient if the patient's will is contested or at the time the will is being prepared. (Apr 1, 2002, Revised: Apr 11, 2008)
Physician interactions with police An overview of a physician's duty to maintain confidentiality and protect the privacy of patients' personal health information in instances of disclosure requests from third parties, including the police or other authorities. (Mar 17, 2011)
Protecting children - Reporting child abuse If physicians have reason to believe a child is in need of protection, they are responsible for informing the appropriate authority in a timely manner. Planning what to say to the family is important. (Mar 14, 2012)
Reporting patients with medical conditions affecting their fitness to drive An overview of medico-legal problems resulting from physicians' decisions on whether or not to report patients with medical conditions that may make it dangerous to drive, or from physicians' decisions on whether or not to support the reinstatement of a licence to drive. (Dec 1, 2010, Revised: Feb 1, 2011)
"Doc, I can't wear a seatbelt!" Responding to patient requests for exemptions to wearing a seatbelt while driving. (Dec 1, 2010)
Reporting another physician A review of the legal duties and ethical considerations for physicians to report their reasonable concerns about the professional competency, conduct or behaviour of another physician to health care institutions/hospitals, public health officials or regulatory authorities (Colleges). (Dec 1, 2010)
Age of consent for sexual activity and duty to report Changes to the Criminal Code have raised the age of consent for sexual activity. Physicians should be guided by legislation in each province and territory on their duty to report such activity to the appropriate authorities if there are reasonable grounds to believe the child is being abused. (Jul 2, 2010)
Foreseeability: What is expected of a physician? Psychiatrists are often called upon to assess either homicidal or suicidal risk. Courts do not impose the burden of infallibility on a physician, only that of a reasonable practitioner. (Oct 1, 2009)
Reporting of gunshot and stab wounds Several provinces have legislation requiring hospitals and healthcare facilities to report gunshot wounds; some also require reporting of stab wounds. Physicians should be aware of the legislation in their jurisdiction and the policies and procedures in their facilities, and disclose only the information required to permit the hospital to fulfill its obligation. (Apr 28, 2009)
Mandatory reporting: what you need to know Legislation requires physicians to report individuals in the transportation industry whose medical condition may constitute a threat to safety. (Jun 1, 2005, Revised: Feb 26, 2008)
Physician interactions with police An overview of a physician's duty to maintain confidentiality and protect the privacy of patients' personal health information in instances of disclosure requests from third parties, including the police or other authorities. (Mar 17, 2011)
Medical certificates, forms, notes, legal reports eLearning activity When asked to complete a form or report, physicians should consider the importance of providing objective and factual information. This eLearning activity describes how to avoid medico-legal pitfalls when completing forms. (Nov 18, 2006) Earn CME credits
Medical marijuana: Medical Declaration and Release from Liability forms Patients seeking authorization to use marijuana for medical reasons require a Medical Declaration signed by their treating physician. Physicians are not obliged to sign these, but if they choose to, they must be aware of College policies and regulations as well as ensuring the accuracy of the Declaration. (Jan 4, 2011)
Anatomy of a well-written note Avoid medico-legal difficulties by writing factual and objective notes. (Mar 1, 2005, Revised: May 12, 2008)
Avoid pitfalls when preparing medico-legal reports Exercise caution in preparing medico-legal reports: consider the nature and extent of risks and whether those risks are probable or, if serious but remote, would be risks the patient would want to be informed about. Avoid potentially misleading statements. (Dec 1, 2003, Revised: Apr 15, 2008)
Forms and reports: the case for care Reports and medical records should be complete, objective, accurate and compliant with legislation. (Jun 1, 2002, Revised: Apr 10, 2008)
Put it in writing, with care Documentation in clinical notes and in reports to third parties should be factual, objective, and appropriate to the purpose. (Oct 1, 2001, Revised: Aug 28, 2008)
Preparing medico-legal reports: suggestions for physicians Care should be taken when writing medico-legal reports, such as reports of treating physicians, independent medical examinations and expert opinions. Suggestions are made as to factors to consider when preparing such reports. (May 1, 2001, Revised: Jul 15, 2008)
Independent medical evaluations: be prepared There are a number of steps that can be taken to reduce the likelihood of patient dissatisfaction with Independent Medical Evaluation. (Dec 1, 2000, Revised: Nov 20, 2008)
Legal liability of physician for medical certificates Medical certificates may be relied on by an employer or its insurer when making a determination concerning a patient's benefits. (Nov 1, 1994, Revised: Nov 15, 2008)
Medico-legal handbook for physicians in Canada Provides information on the Canadian litigation process, consent, negligence and the standard of care, the expert consultant and report, guidelines for giving evidence, confidentiality, reporting requirements for physicians and many other topics. (Jan 3, 2005, Revised: Jan 31, 2011)
Is this patient capable of consenting? A discussion of consent issues that may arise when caring for adults with diminished mental capacity (competency). (Jun 23, 2011)
Thinking about a patient's human rights It is important to respect your patient's human rights. Although it is usually inadvertent, any appearance of discrimination may lead to a complaint and the physician may be censured. (Mar 16, 2010)
Foreseeability: What is expected of a physician? Psychiatrists are often called upon to assess either homicidal or suicidal risk. Courts do not impose the burden of infallibility on a physician, only that of a reasonable practitioner. (Oct 1, 2009)
Being on call when resources are limited Physicians may be expected to provide appropriate advice to referring physicians even when their facility cannot accept the patient. (Mar 3, 2008)
Limited health-care resources: the difficult balancing act The Courts expect physicians to provide appropriate care to patients, making use of available resources. Physicians can be discussing limitations with patients and may discuss concerns and options with other physicians and administrators. (Sep 1, 2007)
Estate Planning Certain practice management issues arise when a physician dies, and should be considered as part of estate planning. (Dec 1, 2007)
Retaining medical records The CMPA recommends retaining records for at least 10 years from the date of the last entry, and for minors, at least 10 years beyond the age of majority. (Jun 2, 2005, Revised: May 2, 2008)
Thinking about a patient's human rights It is important to respect your patient's human rights. Although it is usually inadvertent, any appearance of discrimination may lead to a complaint and the physician may be censured. (Mar 16, 2010)
Clinic held liable for a sexual assault Ontario court decides that a medical clinic is liable for sexual assault committed by a technologist, who was an employee of the medical clinic. (Dec 1, 2005, Revised: Apr 15, 2008)
When joking isn't funny Respect and observation of professional boundaries allows you to express concerns about patient care without fear of reprisal. (Mar 1, 1999, Revised: May 1, 2008)
Could the patient be pregnant? A review of medico-legal problems related to patients who are unknowingly pregnant and have been exposed to investigations and treatments recognized to possibly harm a fetus. (Mar 17, 2011)
Airway management issues in pediatric anesthesia Airway management considerations that may improve patient care and reduce the medico-legal risk associated with pediatric airway management by anesthesiologists. (Dec 1, 2010)
Surgical safety checklists: A team approach to patient safety The use of a surgical safety checklist should decrease the risk of adverse events and surgical complications by fostering a patient safety mindset and encouraging team communication. (Oct 1, 2010, Revised: Dec 13, 2010)
Breast cancer detection and diagnosis: Part 2 A review of closed medico-legal cases alleging delays in the diagnosis and management of breast cancer, focusing on patients presenting with clinical findings suggesting a possible lesion of the breast. (Oct 1, 2009)
Breast cancer detection and diagnosis: Part 1 Clear communication among patients, referring physicians, technicians and radiologists, as well as attention to details in follow-up, will permit optimal outcomes from screening programs for breast cancer. (Apr 28, 2009)
Aminoglycoside therapy: Balancing risk versus benefit Aminoglycosides are effective antimicrobial drugs but can have serious adverse effects. Indications, alternatives, dose, duration and co-morbidities are some of the important considerations. (Dec 17, 2008)
Tips to avoid trouble (tips 10, 11, 12) Important considerations in providing telephone advice; issues to consider when transferring the care of a patient. (Sep 1, 2008)
Aminoglycosides — A fine balance Appropriate use of aminoglycosides requires awareness of the potential side effects and their symptoms. (Jun 2, 2008)
Specimen and Report mix-ups Pathological examination of a surgical specimen is the mid-point of a complex process involving many people. Mix-ups can occur at any point in the process, with adverse effects for patient and difficulties for health-care personnel. (Dec 1, 2007)
Well-limb compartment syndrome Although most physicians are aware of the possibility of compartment syndrome following trauma to a limb, it may occur in other situations. (Sep 1, 2005, Revised: Sep 9, 2008)
Reporting to quality improvement committees in hospitals Quality improvement activities can be expected to improve patient care, but care should be taken to avoid undue medico-legal risk. (Jun 1, 2004, Revised: May 22, 2008)
Keeping a sharp eye on sharps The proper disposal of materials such as sharps is important. (Mar 2, 2004, Revised: Apr 15, 2008)
Provincial counsel commentary:The Krever Inquiry An inquiry into the Canadian blood system recommended improved documentation and informed consent, and decreased allogeneic blood use. (Jan 1, 2000, Revised: Apr 10, 2008)
More Telephone Problems A case illustrates why it is important to take a sufficient history during a telephone call. (Nov 1, 1998, Revised: Jan 1, 2011)
Acute compartment syndrome of the lower extremity eLearning activity This eLearning activity focuses on some of the factors leading to litigation in patients with acute compartment syndrome (ACS) of the lower extremity. The role of team communication in timely diagnosis and the importance of clinical records in improving care are explored. (Mar 19, 2007) Earn CME credits
Risk management in cataract surgery Medico-legal issues for ophthalmologists related to the pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative periods of cataract surgery. (Sep 7, 2012)
Strengthening inter-professional communication A discussion of how physicians can improve their inter-professional communication skills, leading to better care for patients and reduced medico-legal risks for physicians. (Mar 17, 2011)
Airway management issues in pediatric anesthesia Airway management considerations that may improve patient care and reduce the medico-legal risk associated with pediatric airway management by anesthesiologists. (Dec 1, 2010)
Surgical safety checklists: A team approach to patient safety The use of a surgical safety checklist should decrease the risk of adverse events and surgical complications by fostering a patient safety mindset and encouraging team communication. (Oct 1, 2010, Revised: Dec 13, 2010)
Thinking about a patient's human rights It is important to respect your patient's human rights. Although it is usually inadvertent, any appearance of discrimination may lead to a complaint and the physician may be censured. (Mar 16, 2010)
Breast cancer detection and diagnosis: Part 2 A review of closed medico-legal cases alleging delays in the diagnosis and management of breast cancer, focusing on patients presenting with clinical findings suggesting a possible lesion of the breast. (Oct 1, 2009)
Patient information - "Do I need to see this?" Custodians of health information are expected to have policies to restrict access to those persons with a "need to know" to monitor access and to deal with incidents of inappropriate access. Before examining any health information, individuals should be aware of and comply with the relevant policies. (Apr 28, 2009, Revised: Apr 1, 2009)
Reporting of gunshot and stab wounds Several provinces have legislation requiring hospitals and healthcare facilities to report gunshot wounds; some also require reporting of stab wounds. Physicians should be aware of the legislation in their jurisdiction and the policies and procedures in their facilities, and disclose only the information required to permit the hospital to fulfill its obligation. (Apr 28, 2009)
Breast cancer detection and diagnosis: Part 1 Clear communication among patients, referring physicians, technicians and radiologists, as well as attention to details in follow-up, will permit optimal outcomes from screening programs for breast cancer. (Apr 28, 2009)
Third parties in the operating room Before permitting persons not a part of the surgical team to be present in the operating room, it is important to consider many issues, among them patient privacy and confidentiality, consent, and safety. (Dec 17, 2008)
Aminoglycoside therapy: Balancing risk versus benefit Aminoglycosides are effective antimicrobial drugs but can have serious adverse effects. Indications, alternatives, dose, duration and co-morbidities are some of the important considerations. (Dec 17, 2008)
Tips to avoid trouble (tips 10, 11, 12) Important considerations in providing telephone advice; issues to consider when transferring the care of a patient. (Sep 1, 2008)
Tips to avoid trouble (tips 7, 8, 9) Effective verbal or written communication with patients and with other health care professionals is a two-way process, and confidentiality is always an issue. (Jun 2, 2008)
Being on call when resources are limited Physicians may be expected to provide appropriate advice to referring physicians even when their facility cannot accept the patient. (Mar 3, 2008)
Specimen and Report mix-ups Pathological examination of a surgical specimen is the mid-point of a complex process involving many people. Mix-ups can occur at any point in the process, with adverse effects for patient and difficulties for health-care personnel. (Dec 1, 2007)
Tips to avoid trouble (tips 1, 2, 3) Care in communicating with patients may help to prevent misunderstandings about proposed treatment, care given by others, or unexpected events. (Sep 1, 2007)
Limited health-care resources: the difficult balancing act The Courts expect physicians to provide appropriate care to patients, making use of available resources. Physicians can be discussing limitations with patients and may discuss concerns and options with other physicians and administrators. (Sep 1, 2007)
Cauda equina syndrome: A case for timely recognition and treatment Cauda equina syndrome is not common, but has the potential for serious and long-lasting disability. Knowing the symptoms and signs, examining the patient adequately, and obtaining timely and appropriate investigations and consultations may help to avoid the risk of disability. (Sep 1, 2007)
Warfarin and INR monitoring: Are you on target? When anticoagulation with warfarin is indicated, it is important for each treating physician to know the appropriate targets and to monitor INR appropriately. (Sep 1, 2007)
The value of good communication When bad news must be given, it is important to use an appropriate communication style (Dec 1, 2006, Revised: May 2, 2008)
If a patient relies on your professional opinion... Before giving advice on medical matters, even informally, physicians should be satisfied they have considered and documented the relevant information. (Mar 1, 2006, Revised: Aug 28, 2008)
Is the equipment working properly? When a patient complains of pain during a procedure, it is important to consider possible factors including equipment malfunction. (Mar 1, 2006, Revised: Aug 28, 2008)
Communication vital when transferring care of a patient The importance of communicating a patient's condition and anticipated treatment plan when transferring care to another physician. (Dec 1, 2005, Revised: May 2, 2008)
When a physician feels intimidated Dealing with intimidation by patients and their families, colleagues and other professionals. (Dec 1, 2002, Revised: Apr 10, 2008)
Nurses' notes and communication Documenting communications with other health care professionals is helpful for good patient care and reduces medico-legal risk. (Dec 1, 2000, Revised: Apr 7, 2008)
Independent medical evaluations: be prepared There are a number of steps that can be taken to reduce the likelihood of patient dissatisfaction with Independent Medical Evaluation. (Dec 1, 2000, Revised: Nov 20, 2008)
Informal telephone advice When providing advice informally to others or over the telephone, obtain sufficient information on which to base your professional opinion, as they may rely on the advice. (Mar 1, 1996, Revised: Jan 1, 2011)
Gratuitous criticism or "If we had only seen you sooner" A physician's remarks about prior care may lead to medico-legal difficulties for a previous care provider. It is important to base any comments on a thorough knowledge of the facts. (Dec 1, 1995, Revised: Feb 26, 2008)
Improving communication between physicians A discussion of how physicians can improve their inter-professional communication skills, leading to better care for patients and reduced medico-legal risks for physicians. (Jun 23, 2011, Revised: Jun 23, 2011)
Documentation eLearning activity Complete and timely charting facilitates good patient care and contributes to a successful defence. This eLearning activity explores the basic elements of a good medical record and describes problems caused by inadequate record keeping. (Nov 18, 2006) Earn CME credits
Documentation: Charting Medical Records eLearning activity Documentation is an important part of providing clinical care and in defending a complaint or lawsuit if the care is later questioned. Documentation, Part II, presents two medico-legal case studies and a series of tips with examples that illustrate the importance of complete, clear and legible documentation in the medical record. (Apr 1, 2008) Earn CME credits
Risk management in cataract surgery Medico-legal issues for ophthalmologists related to the pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative periods of cataract surgery. (Sep 7, 2012)
Protecting children - Reporting child abuse If physicians have reason to believe a child is in need of protection, they are responsible for informing the appropriate authority in a timely manner. Planning what to say to the family is important. (Mar 14, 2012)
The difficulties in diagnosing subarachnoid hemorrhage An analysis of CMPA medico-legal cases indicates that delays in diagnosing subarachnoid hemorrhage may occur for many reasons. This article looks at some of these and the resulting medico-legal problems. (Jun 23, 2011)
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