Quarterly Risk Management Tip for Residents
Practical Pointers for Managing Risk When Treating Patients with Suicidal Behaviors

1.      Include specific exploration of suicidal potential in examinations at the outset of treatment and at other points of decision during treatment. Suicidal potential should be re-assessed at least: 1) whenever there is an incidence of suicidal or self-destructive ideation or behavior; 2) when significant clinical changes occur; 3) when any modification in supervision or observation level is ordered; and 4) at the time of discharge or transfer from one level of care to another.  Based on these reassessments, make adjustments to the treatment plan as needed.

Defining the Standard of Care

Q.  I know my patient care must always meet the standard of care, but how exactly is the standard of care defined and determined?

A.  The exact definition of standard of care varies by state, but generally, it is the degree of skill, care, and diligence exercised by members of the same profession or specialty practicing in light of the present state of medical science.  It is important to keep in mind that the standard of care does not mean optimal care, but includes a range of acceptable treatment options.

Tutorials Offered by PRMS

PRMS has developed a series of short tutorials in an effort to educate psychiatrists and other behavioral healthcare professionals in the areas of insurance, risk management, and claims.

Insurance 101 – Harland Westgate, JD Explains the Basics of Multi Party Litigation - http://youtu.be/Ub9FKPHPofE

Six Things You Can Do Now to Avoid Being Sued LATER with David Cash – http://youtu.be/OQwjNzetxag