An Analysis of Medico-legal Claims against Dermatologists in Australia from a Single Medical Indemnity Insurer

Abstract

Risk mitigation practices are essential to protecting patients from harm and reducing medical practitioner exposure to unnecessary reputational damage and economic loss. Despite traditionally being perceived as a low-risk specialty, published data on medico-legal claims against dermatologists in Australia are currently lacking. This article reviews the sources of medico-legal claims against dermatologists in Australia from a single medical indemnity insurer over the most recent three years. The failure to meet patient expectations was the largest source of claims against dermatologists, followed by adverse outcomes. Improved communication from practitioner to patient remains the most effective step to preventing medico-legal claims. Medico-legal claims, when they occur, are more successfully defended when thorough documentation processes are in place.