Development of an Early Identification and Response Model of Malpractice Prevention

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to describe the development of an early identification and response model of malpractice prevention that is designed to achieve these objectives. The article begins with a rationale for the project. Then it describes the development of a patient complaint analysis system ("PCAS")-a mechanism for identifying physicians who have complaint patterns associated with higher than average risk of malpractice claims-and the results of its use in a large physician multispecialty group. The article then uses PCAS data to support a peer interview approach to changing physician behavior. Finally, it discusses issues associated with attempting to foster changes in physician behavior.