Understanding Malpractice: What Every Dental Professional Needs to Know

Malpractice is a serious concern for every dental professional. In Episode 87 of The Full Arch Podcast, Dr. Stephen Vorholt sits down with malpractice attorney Leah Schacher to discuss the critical aspects of malpractice that every dentist should understand. From the legal processes to the best ways to protect your practice, this episode provides essential insights to safeguard your career.

What Constitutes Dental Malpractice?

At its core, dental malpractice occurs when a patient alleges harm due to negligence, substandard care, or a violation of professional standards. Common causes of malpractice claims include misdiagnosis, failure to obtain informed consent, or procedural errors that lead to patient injury. Leah Schacher explains how understanding the legal definition of malpractice can help dentists avoid potential pitfalls in their practice.

How Long Does a Malpractice Case Take?

One of the surprising insights from this episode is the timeline for malpractice cases. Many dental professionals assume that legal proceedings are swift, but as Leah highlights, most cases take at least a year or two to resolve, and some can last much longer. Delays often result from scheduling conflicts with experts, numerous continuances, and the complexity of cases involving multiple parties.

Leah advises dental professionals to stay patient if they find themselves involved in a malpractice lawsuit and to prepare for a lengthy legal process.

Protecting Your Practice

Prevention is always better than cure, and that applies to malpractice as well. Leah emphasizes the importance of clear patient communication, proper documentation, and staying updated on the latest laws and regulations in the dental field. Keeping thorough records, ensuring informed consent, and having malpractice insurance are all key strategies to protect your practice from legal claims.

The Importance of Malpractice Insurance

Leah also stresses the importance of malpractice insurance, noting that it’s a critical safeguard for dental professionals. Whether you're new to the field or have been practicing for years, having adequate insurance coverage is essential for managing the financial risk associated with legal claims.

For a deeper understanding of dental malpractice and how to protect your practice, listen to Episode 87 of The Full Arch Podcast with Leah Schacher.

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