Orthopedic procedures are highly complex, involving the precise manipulation of bones, joints and muscles. Even with the best care, complications can sometimes occur due to various factors such as complex anatomy, variations in patients physiology, human errors or equipment malfunction. Every decision and procedure can have huge consequences, impacting not only the patient’s life but also the surgeon’s reputation. One mistake can lead to severe outcomes, including patients suffering, emotional trauma and in worse cases like the medical negligence claims.
Significance Of Advancement In Orthopaedics
In India, the fusion of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Orthopaedics is transforming musculoskeletal care. AI-powered diagnostic tools analyze medical images, identify patterns, and detect conditions earlier and accurately. Robotics and navigation systems, enhanced by AI, ensure precision and accuracy in surgeries, reducing complications.
Indian hospitals and research institutions are adopting AI-driven rehabilitation platforms. Additionally, government initiatives like Ayushman Bharat and National Health Mission are emphasizing digital health. However, no technology is the substitute for a skilled and experienced surgeon and the rapid growth of these technologies also brings a risk of errors if not carefully managed.
Most Frequent Errors In Orthopedic
The orthopedics profession is a critical profession and the risk in orthopedics is mainly related to two types of procedures which can easily lead to medical negligence lawsuits to a healthcare provider: –
- Diagnostic Errors: A diagnostic error occurs when an orthopedic surgeon mistakenly or delays identification of an actual musculoskeletal condition which results in inappropriate or late treatment. These may include such errors as misinterpretation of imaging studies, failure to recognize an underlying condition, or failure to recognize any complications following surgery.
- Therapeutic Errors: Treatment errors include those that occur during treatment, such as inappropriate surgical techniques, poor implant selection, and inadequate postoperative care. These can result in a host of unfavorable consequences, including infections, nerve damage, implant failure, and prolonged recovery periods. Similarly, the consequences of diagnostic and therapeutic errors can involve severe implications for patients, ranging from patient harm to increased morbidity and mortality. This is why professional indemnity insurance has become the need of the hour. It is a safety net securing you, your profession, reputation, and livelihood.
Medical Negligence Cases in Orthopaedics
Orthopedic surgeons are viewed as being especially vulnerable to claims of medical malpractice due to a specific challenge; the nature of the injuries they treat necessitates time-sensitive intervention, often resulting in limited time being available for a thorough preoperative risk assessment
As per the Medical Dialogue report, one of the recent cases where, Additional District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, Bengaluru, directed an orthopedic surgeon to pay approximately Rs 4 lakh in compensation to a patient for medical negligence during a total knee replacement surgery.
Similarly, a Jaipur based doctor was held negligent for performing plastic surgery on a patient suffering from a burn injury, the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) directed the doctor to pay a sum of 20 lakh of compensation to the patient.
Moreover, 85% of the medical negligence cases filed against the doctors is not genuine. A government panel formed to investigate medical negligence cases found that only 15% of the complaints received involved actual cases of medical negligence. However, a doctor still has to go through a lengthy legal process, which can last up to years, causing financial and mental strain.
Why is Professional Indemnity Insurance an Absolute Necessity for Orthopaedics?
Due to the rising cases of negligence claims, as an orthopedic surgeon, you are vulnerable to negligence claims, even when performing routine procedures. A single misstep, misdiagnosis, or complication can lead to devastating consequences including lawsuits, financial losses, and damage to your professional reputation. Moreover, Routine procedures such as joint replacements, or spinal surgeries can quickly become high-stake cases if something goes wrong. In that scenario indemnity insurance plays a crucial role. It protects healthcare providers financially and legally in case of negligence lawsuits with costs of legal fees, charges of documentation, and compensation payments. This safeguard policy protects doctors’ careers and gives financial security. Any healthcare provider should never think that their line of work is too low-risk or that even the simplest procedures can’t yield costly lawsuits. With indemnity insurance, you will be relieved and secure your finances and future.
CoverYou’s Professional Indemnity Insurance
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