They slip, you fall: Have policy and procedures for hazards to avoid accidents, legal grief

Why This Topic Matters

Patient injuries that happen in the office can create both safety and liability concerns. Clear procedures and proper reporting help practices manage risk, support documentation, and respond appropriately when an incident occurs.

Article Sections

1. Maintenance a must

   Discusses the importance of routine hazard assessment, written procedures, and documentation for preventing foreseeable injuries in the office environment.

2. Might be malpractice?

   Covers the distinction between general premises hazards and issues that may arise during care, along with the need to consider patient-specific risk factors.

3. Mind your HIPAA

   Explains how incident reporting should be handled separately from the medical record and when an event may also need to be reflected in treatment documentation.

4. Get expert help

   Describes early involvement of risk management, legal counsel, and related documentation and notification steps after an incident.

5. What if you did it?

   Addresses communication approaches when a patient questions an incident, including the role of candor, restraint, and insurer contact.