Preliminary study of hospital systems for malpractice dispute management based on physicians' experiences

Objectives: This study explored the characteristics of hospitals' systems for malpractice dispute management. Suggestions are proposed for improving hospitals' policies in this field. Methods: Eighteen physicians who had experienced malpractice disputes in the past 10 years were interviewed. Results: Most physicians received legal and financial support from hospital systems for malpractice disputes, but emotional support from colleagues and supervisors was inadequate due to a prevalent culture of shame and liability in malpractice dispute contexts. Hospital systems were reported to examine dispute events to assure monetary compensation but not to discover root causes of events or to devise preventive strategies. Most hospitals were determined to be reactive, with few implementing policies to proactively prevent malpractice disputes. Conclusions: Government authorities handling health affairs should request that hospitals organize educational activities regularly to improve medical staff members' knowledge and attitudes regarding malpractice disputes. Each malpractice dispute requires root cause analysis and recording of results to guide future policies. For resolution of potential malpractice disputes, hospitals should implement preventive policies to enable early assistance when adverse outcomes or patient complaints occur. ? 2019 Chinese Public Health Association of Taiwan. All rights reserved.