Tag: diagnostic tests

Stopping Medical Malpractice: How Patients Can Help

Reducing medical liability benefits patients and doctors. This update of an old post reviews the patient’s role in preventing medical mistakes.

Updated July 7, 2026

(previously posted under the title 6 reasons to sue your doctor-and how not to-conclusion) 

Attorney Richard Baker tells physicians,

“Don’t be afraid to face them (family of a patient with a bad outcome.) It’s important to let them know you understand how they feel. Compassionate gestures count.”

The best way for physicians and patients to work through their feelings about a bad outcome is to start with a mutually respectful, cooperative relationship.

Just like any other relationship, there may be disagreement. These should be resolved with each satisfied that their viewpoint has been listened to and considered and are comfortable with the final decision.

mission trip in Mexico; photo by Brian Edgerton
mission trip in Mexico; photo by Brian Edgerton

More important than liking your doctor is feeling comfortable with their personality and communication style, respecting their knowledge and skill, and trusting that they will act ethically and do what is in the patient’s best interest.

Patients contribute to the relationship by respecting the doctor’s time, observing boundaries on the doctor’s personal life, and being financially responsible.

When you are unhappy with some aspect of your care, doctors prefer that you address the issue directly and respectfully; no one likes feeling attacked personally. A complaint should be as specific as possible and include what you think is the solution.

If you find yourself feeling disappointed, frustrated, or angry at your doctor more times than not, don’t let the situation drag on or escalate. It’s time to admit that the relationship is not compatible and move on.

Here are some ideas on how to find a new doctor.

The 6 ways patients can help stop medical malpractice suits: 


Cultivate communication

Doctors need to do it better, and patients need to feel that their input is welcome and valued.


Understand what’s happening


Doctors need to explain information and patients should ask questions when they don’t fully understand


Credentials


Doctors need to stay current in their specialty certifications and licensure and patients need access to that information.


Follow up-


Doctors need to review report all diagnostic results, and patients need to receive them


Report problems-


Doctors need to know if anything irregular is happening and patient should report their observations without fear of retaliation


Establish rapport


Doctors and patients don’t need to be BFFs but should respect each other and show kindness and compassion. We all need it.

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