Risk Management for Dentists

Dentists, like physicians and surgeons, have an increased risk for malpractice lawsuits. However, if you run your dental practice with risk management in mind, you can significantly reduce this risk with simple everyday procedures. And as it turns out, these procedures can also keep your practice more organized and enhance your patient care. Sounds like a win-win! Let’s take a look at some of the risk management tips that you can introduce to your practice:

• Keep detailed, accurate and up-to-date records for each of your patients. Include medical and dental histories, diagnostics, patient authorization if copies of records (never the originals) are released from your office and informed consent or refusal for any treatments.
• A satisfied patient is less likely to file a claim against your practice. Improve patient comfort by providing a soothing atmosphere, thoroughly explaining treatments that patients will undergo and ensuring that patients have reasonable expectations regarding treatment outcome before beginning any dental work.
• Examine your patients for signs of oral cancer and TMJ. Record any findings, positive or negative.
• Never conceal information from patients. Inform them of any signs of dental problems or bad outcomes immediately following examination and/or treatment.
• When doctor-patient relationships come to an end, send the patient a letter or email that acknowledges the termination. You may also choose to offer tips for recommended at-home dental care and information about obtaining a copy of his or her dental record.

Prevention is the best medicine, for both patients and doctors. In your case, preventing patients from finding a reason to claim malpractice is the best way to protect your livelihood and reputation. Of course, as a doctor, you’ll never be completely free of risk. Ask your local agent about dental practice insurance, which is designed to cover the unique needs of dentists.
Protect your practice with specialized coverage. Call Alexander & Strunk Inc. at (405) 751-8356 for more information on Oklahoma City dental practice insurance.