As a doctor, be realistic with the fact that doctors practicing in a specialized field of medicine run the risk of being sued for malpractice in their course of their medical career. So, here are steps to consider in helping you stand a better chance of winning a malpractice suit against you.
Contact your insurer at the earliest sign of trouble
It is important to inform your insurer about the earliest sign of trouble when you think that a legal suit will be filed against you, so your insurer can allocate a claims representative to provide legal assistance and guidance when the need for it comes. Also, it would be good to seek the legal assistance of a medical malpractice lawyer, especially one who has experience in your field of medicine, so he/she can prepare out a good defense plan for your case. It is also good to prepare and gather all documented records of your patient to establish proofs that you performed your duties according to the standards and protocols of medical practice.
Never attempt to reconstruct the medical records of your patient
Be confronted with the fact that medical records are backed up in different data bases and any attempt to change or reconstruct the records can be detected; therefore, leave the records as it is to avoid using the altered records as a point against you, charging against your credibility, and losing your chances of winning the malpractice case.
Practice and master your testimony
With the help of your lawyer, prepare and practice well your testimony, because you will be delivering this under oath in court and the plaintiff lawyer will be using your testimony to cross examine you, so master every angle of your statements, as much as possible mastering your evidences clearly and without doubts. It is a tactical diversion of a plaintiff lawyer to attack you once he/she uncovers your weakness, during the cross examination, therefore, when you answer his/her questions, do so, objectively, and be calm and composed.
Help your lawyer on the medical aspects
It is important to assist your lawyer to be enlightened on certain medical aspects on your case and also letting him/her know the discrepancies with respect to the medical practice to which it is in conflict with the plaintiff lawyer’s logic. Be well prepared in being able to deliver your justifications on the actions you took while you treated the patient, as well as explaining the decisions you made and have the patient’s records at hand as a guide while you undergo the process of justifying your course of actions.
Summary of steps to do in a malpractice suit
Even if a malpractice lawsuit is a common thing among specialized doctors, the following are guides to help you through, once a lawsuit is filed against you: call your insurance provider so you are provided with a legal expert, do not alter the medical records, practice your deposition testimony with the help of your lawyer, assist your lawyer in explaining the technical aspects, and maintain your cool during the cross examination.