Medical Malpractice Insurance for Plastic Surgeons
As a surgical specialty, plastic surgery is among the most sued and, therefore, highest-risk medical specialties. About one half of medical malpractice suits are filed against surgeons, though surgeons make up only a small percentage of the population of physicians. Each year, one in three board certified plastic surgeons faces a malpractice claim. (1) Across the country, plastic surgeons can expect to pay relatively high premiums for medical malpractice insurance. States like Connecticut and Florida will carry the highest premiums, while less litigious states like Oklahoma and Nebraska will come in with much lower rates.
In order to avoid claims and manage risk, plastic surgeons should emphasize good communication with patients, making every step of the treatment process as clear as possible. It is of particular importance in aesthetic procedures for plastic surgeons to manage expectations. Many patients will have unrealistic expectations of cosmetic procedures, and without good communication will be likely to sue if they are unsatisfied with the result of a surgery. Documentation is also important; plastic surgeons should be careful to record every action in treating a patient and performing a surgery, so that there is no room for misunderstandings later.
As members of a high-risk specialty, plastic surgeons have a vested interest in stabilizing the volatile medical liability climate in the U.S. Surgeons should support the efforts of their specialty organizations and of the American Medical Association (AMA) to bring about meaningful reforms.
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