Case Study Review: Spinal Epidural Abscess

Program Description

Physicians benefit from an increased awareness and understanding of lessons learned from closed malpractice claims in their specialty. Attend this session to learn about the issues identified in closed hospitalist malpractice claims for Spinal Epidural Abscess. See what the claims data shows as the most frequent type of risk and the severity of losses for hospitalists. Learn strategies to help you successfully overcome risks that have been problematic in patient care. The program will provide information, case examples, and Patient Safety strategies to reduce risks.

Objectives

After completing this activity, learners will be able to:

• Review claims data related to spinal epidural abscess (SEA) claims
• Recognize the types of clinical issues that can delay the diagnosis of a SEA and result in severe injury for the patient
• Identify two strategies to improve physician communication and documentation to reduce the risk for a malpractice claim

Disclosure

No individual in a position to control or influence the content of this activity has reported relevant financial relationships with commercial interests. 

  
Faculty:

Kathleen Stillwell, MPA/HSA, RN, CPHRM, Patient Safety Risk Manager II, The Doctors Company

Kathleen earned Master’s Degrees in Public Administration and Health Services Administration. She is also a registered nurse and a Certified Professional Health Care Risk Manager (CPHRM). Ms. Stillwell has served as faculty for the American Society for Healthcare Risk Management, and is published in the American Hospital Society Risk Management Handbook for Healthcare Organizations. Ms. Stillwell is a nationally recognized expert in healthcare risk management with over 30 years of experience in clinical risk management, professional liability claims management, compliance, and high-risk underwriting. Her expertise includes hospital and healthcare administration, physician practice management, health benefits management, and healthcare regulatory compliance.

Continuing Education Credit 

The Doctors Company is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical educational activities for physicians.

The Doctors Company designates this enduring material activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only those credit(s) commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

The Doctors Company estimates one hour for completion of this course. A passing score of 80 percent or greater is required to successfully complete the activity and earn AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™.

Disclaimer

The information and guidelines contained in this recorded enduring material activity are generalized and may not apply to all practice situations. The faculty recommends that legal advice be obtained from a qualified attorney for specific application to your practice. The information is intended for educational purposes and should be used as a reference guide only.

Complies with State Requirements

Connecticut, Massachusetts, Nevada, Pennsylvania, Texas, Washington

Contact CME

If you have questions, contact educationsupport@thedoctors.com or call (800) 421-2368, extension 1243.