I'm almost done reading a book by Harvey Wachsman, M.D.,J.D. called "Lethal Medicine. The epidemic of medical malpractice in America." The author started out as a Neurosurgeon and later went into law. The cases described in his book range from "simple" mistakes (forgetting to remove a cocaine soaked cotton swab from a patients nose, she died of overdose) to doctors who act incompetently (failing to order a colonoscopy/MRI/sonogram for an elderly patient who had abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, family history of cancer: simply diagnosed as irritable bowel syndrome). Although the cases were varied, one constant was almost certain. No matter how grievous the negligence of the physician, most everyone in the medical community stuck together for a cover up. Charts were "doctored" and outright lies were told to the family. Doctors who continually caused much harm were protected.
Given this book was written in the early 90's and some changes may have occurred, how does this line up with your experience now? Are those in the medical community willing to protect their own at the expense of the patients? In cases of clear malpractice, should we not hold those who bring disgrace to the profession responsible?
p.s. The book is a great read and provides interesting insight into how malpractice is viewed from the other side
Given this book was written in the early 90's and some changes may have occurred, how does this line up with your experience now? Are those in the medical community willing to protect their own at the expense of the patients? In cases of clear malpractice, should we not hold those who bring disgrace to the profession responsible?
p.s. The book is a great read and provides interesting insight into how malpractice is viewed from the other side
