Electronic Device Use and Associated Risks Impacting Healthcare Providers and Patients

Description

Healthcare delivery distracted by electronic devices can potentially lead physicians to deliver unsafe care. Self-imposed use of such devices for non-medical purposes has seeped into daily practice. Personal electronic devices can create a digital distraction so engaging that it consumes awareness, potentially preventing healthcare providers from focusing on, caring for, and interacting with patients. hysician/patient interactions using electronic devices and text messaging bring risks as well. Patients also can use their own technology to record physician interactions, sometimes surreptitiously This program will discuss the problems of distractions in healthcare practice, other electronic challenges, as well as patient-initiated recordings of healthcare interactions. Case examples, with legal counsel reflection, will be discussed. Mitigation strategies that can be implemented in your practice will be presented.

Course ID #: TDS190641 Issue Date: 12/17/2019 Expiration Date: 12/17/2020

Objectives

After completing this activity, learners will be able to:

  • Assess my practice/organization for opportunities to limit distractions and interruptions.
  • Identify mitigation strategies to address texting, patient-initiated healthcare recording, and other risks associated with electronic devices.
  • Create a written plan for my practice that outlines steps to reduce distractions from electronic devices when caring for patients.
  • Educate colleagues to the challenges of defending medical malpractice claims involving allegations of distracted practice.

Disclosure

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

Disclaimer

The information and guidelines contained in this activity are generalized and may not apply to all practice situations. We recommend 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.

Faculty

  • Paul Nagle, CPCU, CLU, ARM, CPHRM, Director, Patient Safety and Risk Management, The Doctors Company
  • Local defense attorney

 

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 activity for a maximum of 1.5 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™.  Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Complies with State Requirements

Please see the Federation of State Medical Boards overview of Continuing Medical Education requirements by State.

Technical Requirements

The activity is best experienced using the most current browser: Firefox, Chrome, Safari, Internet Explorer, or Microsoft Edge. All activities featuring audio must have a speaker. To view graphic images and references that appear in separate "pop-up" windows, JavaScript and session cookies must be enabled on your computer. Adobe Acrobat Reader may be required for certain activities.

Contact Us

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

Resource

Acquire program materials here. Print handout and bring to seminar.