ABSTRACT

Analyzing the level of claims for clinical negligence in the light of the most recent trends and discovering whether there is indeed a litigation crisis in healthcare, this book is a topical and compelling exploration of healthcare and doctor-patient relationships.

The author:

  • identifies and analyzes the growing pressures on doctors in modern society, placing their role in context
  • explores some of the myths surrounding media claims about malpractice
  • considers the practice of ‘defensive medicine’ and the difference between defensive practices and sensible risk management
  • examines external pressures, such as political interference with clinical practice in the form of target-setting and what might be described as a culture of creeping privatization of healthcare.

Covering the topics of medicine and the media and the causes of occupational stress among doctors, this volume is a must read for all students of medical law and medical ethics.

chapter 1|47 pages

Data, accuracy, compensation and error

What should we believe?

chapter 2|31 pages

Reasons for the increase in claims

Who is to blame?

chapter 3|27 pages

The compensation culture in healthcare

Myth or reality?

chapter 4|24 pages

Perpetuating the myth

Should we blame the media?

chapter 5|33 pages

Doctors

Over-paid, out of control, and under-regulated?

chapter 6|55 pages

Treating the affliction

Are there any remedies?