AAP News Vol. 1 No. 8 August 1985, p. 9
© 1985 American Academy of Pediatrics
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Interviews reveal why people file malpractice suits

Why did they sue me?

This question haunts defendant pediatricians across the country. A recent article in Perinatal Advocate reports the findings of interviews with 50 malpractice plaintiffs. While providing insight into reasons why people filed medical malpractice claims, the findings also suggest actions pediatricians should consider to avoid such claims.

The interviews demonstrated that people pursuing lawsuits often were not the initiators of discussions about litigation. Nurses, social workers, family friends, funeral directors, clergymen and even doctors were found to have encouraged the patient's family to contact an attorney.

Sometimes, nurses and doctors have even suggested that the care given previously was substandard.