WWHGD Partner Carol Michel Discusses Avoiding Common Mistakes in Handling Medical Malpractice Claims

In an article published by Healthcare Risk Management on July 16, Carol Michel is quoted discussing best practices to avoid common mistakes in handling medical malpractice claims. 

Ultimately, the fate of a medical malpractice claim can be determined by how it is handled at its inception. Taking the proper measures at the outset of a claim can increase the probability of a successful outcome. 

“Identify the key participants in the case so you can talk to them while memories are still fresh,” notes Michel. “So many times when the lawsuit comes two years after the occurrence, memories have faded by that time and it is hard for these people to remember exactly what was done or said. It also is important to support and prepare those people for depositions.”

Michel further explains that while it may seem wise for risk managers to engage directly with plaintiff’s counsel, it is almost always a bad idea.

“Representations may be made, or things may be said that later come back to be an issue in the case — things that did not need to be an issue in the case and just complicate the matter,” she says.

For the full article, click here.