Healthcare Risk Management – December 1, 2020

December 1, 2020

• Provider Relief Funds Require Strict Compliance Program

  Risk managers and compliance officers should act now to ensure compliance programs are consistent with the latest guidelines from the Department of Health and Human Services.

  Read more

• Recommended Elements of a Compliance Program

  Provider Relief Fund compliance will require an extensive and far-reaching program, experts note.

  Read more

• Summary of HHS Guidance on Provider Relief Fund Compliance

  The reporting requirements for the Provider Relief Fund should not be a surprise to healthcare organizations. “Free” money usually comes with a lot of strings attached.

  Read more

• What to Do When Malpractice Allegations Become Defamation

  Medical malpractice litigation can get ugly, with passionate plaintiffs and indignant clinicians or hospital administrators firing off heated accusations and insults. But where is the line where a malpractice allegation becomes defamation? What can be done when that happens?

  Read more

• Online Ratings Pose Risk of Defamation, May Need Response

  The risk of defamation increases with the proliferation of online rating services in the medical industry, experts say.

  Read more

• Surviving Spouse Awarded $1.1 Million for Patient’s Delayed Cancer Diagnosis

  Although the parties disputed several essential facts in this case, one important, incontrovertible fact was the patient missed several follow-up appointments, failed to schedule tests recommended by the care providers, and thus contributed to her injuries. Physicians and care providers only have so much ability to compel patients to seek treatment.

  Read more

• Court Vacates $911,000 Malpractice Verdict on Expert Testimony Rule

  This case provides another example of how trial strategy and preparation is essential to the positive outcome of a case, with particular focus on the selection and retention of expert witnesses. Expert witnesses often can make or break a case, and that is true for either party in a medical malpractice action.

  Read more