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Breivold J, Isaksson Rø K, Nilsen S, Andersen MKK, Nexøe J, Hjörleifsson S. Gatekeeping and referral of patients holding private health insurance: a survey among general practitioners in Norway. Scand J Prim Health Care 2024; 42:695-703. [PMID: 39039849 PMCID: PMC11552242 DOI: 10.1080/02813432.2024.2380923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Private health insurance is becoming more common in Norway. The aim of this study was to investigate GPs' opinions on private health insurance, and their experiences from consultations where health insurance can affect decisions about referring. DESIGN A web based cross-sectional survey. SETTING Norwegian general practice. SUBJECTS All GPs in Norway were in 2019 invited to participate in an online survey. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The GPs' opinions and experiences regarding health insurance were reported as proportions. Multiple logistic regression was used to test associations between how frequently GPs refer patients without further considerations and variables concerning their characteristics, opinions, and experiences. RESULTS Of 1,309 GPs (response rate 27%), 93% stated that private health insurance raises the risk of overtreatment and 90% considered such insurance to contribute to inequality in health. Frequently being pressured to refer in the absence of a medical indication was reported by 42%. Moreover, 28% often or always chose to refer patients without further consideration, and this was associated with perceptions of pressure with an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of 3.80, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.73-5.29, and unpleasant reactions from patients following refusals (AOR 1.63, 95% CI 1.14-2.33). CONCLUSION Although most participating GPs associated private health insurance with overtreatment and inequality in health, more than one in four choose to refer without further consideration. GPs' experience of pressure to refer and negative reactions from patients when they consider referrals not to be medically indicated, raises the risk of medical overuse for patients holding private health insurance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jørgen Breivold
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Norway
| | - Karin Isaksson Rø
- Institute for Studies of the Medical Profession, The Norwegian Medical Association, Oslo, Norway
| | - Stein Nilsen
- Research Unit for General Practice, Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration, Norway
| | | | | | - Stefán Hjörleifsson
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Norway
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Bohler F, Garden A, Brock C, Bohler L. Value-based healthcare payment models: a wolf in sheep's clothing for patients and clinicians. Ann Med 2024; 56:2382948. [PMID: 39046804 PMCID: PMC11271071 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2024.2382948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Value-based healthcare payment models are an alternative insurance payment system that compensates healthcare providers based on their patients' outcomes rather than the individual services healthcare workers provide. This shift from the current fee-for-service model that predominates our medical system has received renewed popularity and attention within organized medicine such as the American Medical Association. Advocates believe that this new payment model will address many of the unsolved issues in healthcare such as medical waste and unsustainable healthcare costs. In practice, however, this model is plagued with a myriad of unresolved issues of its own. In this commentary, we outline these issues and suggest that the intentions of those advocating for value-based payment models are either misguided or disingenuous. We then offer solutions that preserve our current fee-for-service model while making necessary changes that will benefit both physicians and patients nationwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Forrest Bohler
- Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, MI, USA
| | - Allison Garden
- Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine - Carolinas Campus, Spartanburg, SC, USA
| | - Callaham Brock
- Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine - Carolinas Campus, Spartanburg, SC, USA
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Boström K, Dojan T, Rosendahl C, Gehrke L, Voltz R, Kremeike K. How do trained palliative care providers experience open desire to die-conversations? An explorative thematic analysis. Palliat Support Care 2024; 22:681-689. [PMID: 35942616 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951522001006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite the potential benefits of open communication about possible desires to die for patients receiving palliative care, health professionals tend to avoid such conversations and often interpret desires to die as requests for medical aid in dying. After implementing trainings to foster an open, proactive approach toward desire to die, we requested trained health professionals to lead and document desire to die-conversations with their patients. In this article, we explore how trained health professionals experience an open (proactive) approach to desire to die-conversations with their patients. METHODS Between April 2018 and March 2020, health professionals recorded their conversation-experiences on documentation sheets by answering seven open questions. A subsample was invited to offer deeper insights through semi-structured qualitative interviews. Interviews and documentation sheets were transcribed verbatim and analyzed thematically, then findings from both sources were compared and synthesized. RESULTS Overall, N = 29 trained health professionals documented N = 81 open desire to die-conversations. A subsample of n = 13 health professionals participated in qualitative interviews. Desire to die-conversations after the training were reported as a complex but overall enriching experience, illustrated in seven themes: (1) beneficial (e.g., establishing good rapport) and (2) hindering aspects (e.g., patients' emotional barriers) of desire to die-conversations, (3) follow-up measures, (4) ways of addressing desire to die, as well as (5) patient reactions to it. The interviews offered space for health professionals to talk about (6) content of desire to die-conversation and (7) (self-)reflection (e.g., on patients' biographies or own performance). SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS As part of an open (proactive) approach, desire to die-conversations hold potential for health professionals' (self-)reflection and a deeper understanding of patient background and needs. They may lead to a strengthened health professional-patient relationship and potentially prevent suicide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Boström
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Department of Palliative Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Thomas Dojan
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Department of Palliative Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Carolin Rosendahl
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Department of Palliative Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Leonie Gehrke
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Department of Palliative Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Raymond Voltz
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Department of Palliative Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Clinical Trials Center (ZKS), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Center for Health Services Research, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Kerstin Kremeike
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Department of Palliative Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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Lorenc T, Khouja C, Harden M, Fulbright H, Thomas J. Defensive healthcare practice: systematic review of qualitative evidence. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e085673. [PMID: 39025824 PMCID: PMC11261683 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-085673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To synthesise qualitative evidence on clinicians' views and experiences of defensive practice. DESIGN Systematic review of qualitative data. DATA SOURCES MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, AMED, Maternity and Infant Care, CINAHL, ASSIA, Sociological Abstracts, Proquest Dissertations & Theses and PROSPERO were searched from 2000 to October 2023. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA We included English-language studies of clinicians which reported qualitative data on the impact of litigation or complaints on clinical practice. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS We coded findings data line by line using a grounded theory approach. We assessed quality using Hawker et al's tool and synthesised data thematically. RESULTS 17 studies were included. Participants identify a range of clinical decisions which may be defensively motivated, relating to diagnosis and documentation as well as to treatment. Defensive practice often relates to a diffuse sense of risk rather than the direct threat of litigation and may overlap with other motivations, such as perceived pressure from patients or the desire to avoid harm. Defensive practice is seen to be harmful in many ways, but again, these perceptions may gain force from broader narratives of mistrust and disempowerment, as much as from the risk of litigation. CONCLUSIONS The idea of defensive practice, as enacted, is more complex than some theoretical accounts suggest and may often function to express broader concerns about the work of clinical care. The qualitative evidence calls into question the view of defensive practice as a key mediator linking litigation risk to inappropriate treatment and excess costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theo Lorenc
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Claire Khouja
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Melissa Harden
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Helen Fulbright
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - James Thomas
- University College London Social Science Research Unit, London, UK
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Goetz K, Oldenburg D, Strobel CJ, Steinhäuser J. The influence of fears of perceived legal consequences on general practitioners' practice in relation to defensive medicine - a cross-sectional survey in Germany. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2024; 25:23. [PMID: 38216861 PMCID: PMC10785451 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-024-02267-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medical decisions are influenced by a variety of factors also by legal requirements and feelings of uncertainty, which results in the term defensive medicine. The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of fears of perceived legal consequences on the practice of defensive medicine from the perspective of German general practitioners (GPs). METHODS A cross-sectional study was performed from April to May 2022. GPs were invited via an e-mail newsletter of the Institute for Continuing Education in Family Medicine in the German Association of General Practitioners and via an online platform of the German College of General Practitioners and Family Physicians. The evaluation of legal fears, the general assessment of defensive medicine and reasons for and the frequency of defensive medical measures were surveyed in this study. Beside descriptive analyses, a stepwise linear regression analysis was used to explore potential associations between for the primary outcome variable 'fears of legal consequences' on the practice of defensive medicine. RESULTS 413 general practitioners with an average age of 50 years (51% female) responded. The majority rated their fears of legal consequences as low to average whereas for almost a third (27%, n = 113) the fears were strong to very strong. Regarding legal fears, the physician-patient-relationship played a fairly to very large role for 48% (n = 198) of the respondents. One third estimated the probability of being sued civilly in the next 10 years as rather high to very high. 47% (n = 193) of the participants assumed that the risk of being sued could mostly to very much be reduced by defensive medicine. Legal self-protection was for 38% of the responders (n = 157) quite frequently to very frequently a reason for acting defensively. Consequently, half of the respondents stated that they performed unnecessary laboratory tests at least once per week and 40% indicated that they referred patients for radiological diagnostics without medical indication once per month. CONCLUSIONS As legal fears have an influence on medical practice and legal self-protection being a frequent reason for defensive behaviour, understanding and knowledge of the law should be improved by legal education at university and further training of post-graduate trainees and practicing physicians should be implemented. Additionally, a more in-depth enlightenment of society about the phenomenon of Protective and Defensive Medicine and its consequences could be a possibility to decrease the perceived fears of legal consequences on the physicians' side.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja Goetz
- Institute of Family Medicine, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538, Lübeck, Germany.
| | - Dorothee Oldenburg
- Institute of Family Medicine, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Christina Jana Strobel
- Institute of Family Medicine, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Jost Steinhäuser
- Institute of Family Medicine, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538, Lübeck, Germany
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Weigel A, Hüsing P, Junge M, Löwe B. Helpful explanatory models for persistent somatic symptoms (HERMES): Results of a three-arm randomized-controlled pilot trial. J Psychosom Res 2023; 172:111419. [PMID: 37352693 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2023.111419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This three-arm randomized controlled trial aimed to test the efficacy of an etiological model for persistent somatic symptoms (PSS) translated into video-animated explanatory models in comparison to a control group, and to examine additional value of personalization of the explanatory models (i.e. possibility to choose information based on mechanisms of symptom persistence). METHODS Outpatients with PSS were shown one of three 15-min video animations: a) explanatory model without personalization, b) explanatory model with personalization, c) no explanatory model control group. Changes in somatic symptom severity (PHQ-15) and psychological burden related to somatic symptoms or associated health concerns (SSD-12) from baseline to one-month follow-up were the primary outcome. Health-related quality of life (SF-12) and perceived usefulness (USE) were also assessed. RESULTS Seventy-five patients with PSS were allocated to the study arms (Mage = 44.2 ± 13.3 years, 56% female). The study arms did not differ significantly on the primary outcomes. However, no explanatory model participants reported significantly greater mental quality of life improvements than explanatory model without personalization participants (Mdiff = 7.50 [0.43; 14.56]). Further, explanatory model with personalization participants rated the individual fit of the intervention significantly higher than no explanatory model participants (Mdiff = 2.05 [0.17; 3.93]). All groups rated credibility of the intervention as very high. CONCLUSION The HERMES materials seemed to have been too brief to improve symptom related outcomes. However, all three interventions were positively evaluated regarding their usefulness, particularly in case of additional personalization. Future studies should investigate potential effects of an increased intervention dose. TRIAL REGISTRATION DRKS00018803.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelika Weigel
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Paul Hüsing
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Magdalena Junge
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Bernd Löwe
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Hamburg, Germany.
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Scognamiglio P, Morena D, Di Fazio N, Delogu G, Iniziato V, La Pia S, Saviano P, Frati P, Fineschi V. Vox clamantis in deserto: a survey among Italian psychiatrists on defensive medicine and professional liability. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1244101. [PMID: 37663598 PMCID: PMC10469623 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1244101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to recent events, professional liability for psychiatrists in Italy is currently a matter of lively debate. Specifically, overwhelming pressure on psychiatrists' duties has been brought by regulatory developments, such as the closure of forensic psychiatric hospitals, with the consequent return of offenders to community-based care, and the mental health consequences of the pandemic. According to Italian courts, psychiatrists are not only responsible for diagnostic and therapeutic appropriateness but also for the effects of their interventions on patients, and their behaviors. The aim of this study was to explore the attitude and behaviors of Italian psychiatrists regarding defensive medicine and professional liability. A total sample of 254 psychiatrists was surveyed by means of a quantitative online questionnaire. Most psychiatrists reported practicing defensive medicine (no. 153/254, 60.2%) and felt that their position of guarantee compromised their work in healthcare for patients (no. 138/253, 54.3%). Age correlated inversely with acknowledgment of defensive practices (r = -0.245, p < 0.001), with younger physicians more prone to defensive medicine (p = 0.013), particularly for patients at risk of suicide or violence. Psychiatrists in 'closed' settings (hospital wards, residential and rehabilitation centers, mental health service units in prison) reported more malpractice claims (p = 0.037) and complaints (p = 0.031), as well as a greater propensity to act defensively. In the treatment of patients with violent behavior, suicidal ideation, dual diagnoses, and criminal convictions, defensive practices were associated more with perceived legal risks (r = 0.306, p < 0.001) than actual legal involvement (p > 0.05). Anxiety, anger, and restlessness were common reactions to legal complaints, involving no. 50/254 (19.7%) respondents, with 40% reporting impaired functioning. Most psychiatrists (no. 175/253, 68.9%) were concerned about both civil and criminal laws regarding their professional responsibility, but many were not fully informed about recent legislative regulations and younger physicians resulted scarcely trained in risk management (p < 0.001). In conclusion, our findings suggest that defensive medicine is a common phenomenon among psychiatrists and their position of guarantee drives this attitude. Education on legal implications and risk management should be provided starting from the university and continuing over time, to improve the knowledge of young and senior doctors on professional liability and inform their decision-making processes. This would also reduce defensive practices and improve the quality of healthcare. Considering the concerns of younger physicians, as well as of professionals working in acute and high-intensity medical care facilities, there is also an urgent need for a revision of the medical liability to ensure the sustainability of the National Health Service.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Donato Morena
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Di Fazio
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Delogu
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Silvestro La Pia
- Department of Mental Health, ASL Napoli 3 Sud, Torre del Greco, Italy
| | - Pasquale Saviano
- Department of Mental Health, ASL Napoli 3 Sud, Torre del Greco, Italy
| | - Paola Frati
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Vittorio Fineschi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Mikkelsen JG, Sørensen NL, Merrild CH, Jensen MB, Thomsen JL. Patient perspectives on data sharing regarding implementing and using artificial intelligence in general practice - a qualitative study. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:335. [PMID: 37016412 PMCID: PMC10071604 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09324-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to more elderly and patients with complex illnesses, there is an increasing pressure on the healthcare system. General practice especially feels this pressure as being the first point of contact for the patients. Developments in digitalization have undergone fast progress and data-driven artificial intelligence (AI) has shown great potential for use in general practice. To develop AI as a support tool for general practitioners (GPs), access to patients' health data is needed, but patients have concerns regarding data sharing. Furthermore, studies show that trust is important regarding the patient-GP relationship, data sharing, and AI. The aim of this paper is to uncover patient perspectives on trust regarding the patient-GP relationship, data sharing and AI in general practice. METHOD This study investigated 10 patients' perspectives through qualitative interviews and written vignettes were chosen to elicit the patients (interviewees) perspectives on topics that they were not familiar with prior to the interviews. The study specifically investigated perspectives on 1) The patient-GP relationship, 2) data sharing regarding developing AI for general practice, and 3) implementation and use of AI in general practice using thematic analysis. The study took place in the North Denmark Region and the interviewees included had to be registered in general practice and be above 18 years in age. We included four men between 25 to 74 years in age and six women between 27 to 46 years in age. RESULTS The interviewees expressed a high level of trust towards their GP and were willing to share their health data with their GP. The interviewees believed that AI could be a great help to GPs if used as a support tool in general practice. However, it was important for the interviewees that the GP would still be the primary decision maker. CONCLUSION Patients may be willing to share health data to help implement and use AI in general practice. If AI is implemented in a way that preserves the patient-GP relationship and used as a support tool for the GP, our results indicate that patients may be positive towards the use of AI in general practice.
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Strobel CJ, Oldenburg D, Steinhäuser J. Factors influencing defensive medicine-based decision-making in primary care: A scoping review. J Eval Clin Pract 2023; 29:529-538. [PMID: 36433885 DOI: 10.1111/jep.13799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE, AIMS AND OBJECTIVES Medical decision-making processes in primary care are influenced by defensive medical practice. This involves a high possibility for negative consequences on many levels, for example, patient's health, health care system costs and a crisis of trust in the patient-doctor relationship. Aim of this review was to identify factors of defensive medicine-based decision-making in primary care. METHODS This scoping review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines and included systematic research on MEDLINE, Google Scholar and two German databases for additional grey literature. References provided further literature. Articles in English and German published from 1 January 1982 to 15 June 2022 were assessed. RESULTS From 911 publications screened, 13 publications [6 qualitative studies and 7 quantitative (3 cross-sectional) studies] were included. In these, four main categories of factors influencing defensive medical practice were identified: (social) media, patients adopting a consumer attitude, health care system based working conditions and physician's tolerance for uncertainty. Pressure deriving from these four different sources is exerted on the general practitioner and may result in a defensive medical decision behaviour. CONCLUSIONS Four categories on influencing factors of defensive medicine could be identified. Strategies to tolerate uncertainty should be trained in under- and postgraduate training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina J Strobel
- Institute of Family Medicine, University Medical Center Schleswig Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Dorothee Oldenburg
- Institute of Family Medicine, University Medical Center Schleswig Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Jost Steinhäuser
- Institute of Family Medicine, University Medical Center Schleswig Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
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Cernega A, Meleșcanu Imre M, Ripszky Totan A, Arsene AL, Dimitriu B, Radoi D, Ilie MI, Pițuru SM. Collateral Victims of Defensive Medical Practice. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11071007. [PMID: 37046933 PMCID: PMC10094659 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11071007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
This paper analyzes the phenomenon of defensive medical practice, starting from the doctor–patient relationship, and the behavioral and professional factors that can influence the proper functioning of this relationship and the healthcare system. We analyze medical malpractice, given the increase in the number of accusations, as an essential factor in triggering the defensive behavior of doctors, together with other complementary factors that emphasize the need for protection and safety of doctors. The possible consequences for the doctor–patient relationship that defensive practice can generate are presented and identified by analyzing the determining role of the type of health system (fault and no-fault). At the same time, we investigate the context in which overspecialization of medical personnel can generate a form of defensive practice as a result of the limiting effect on the performance of a certain category of operations and procedures. The increase in the number of malpractice accusations impacts the medical community—“the stress syndrome induced by medical malpractice”—turning doctors into collateral victims who, under the pressure of diminishing their reputational safety, practice defensively to protect themselves from future accusations. This type of defensive behavior puts pressure on the entire healthcare system by continuously increasing costs and unresolved cases, which impact patients by limiting access to medical services in the public and private sectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Cernega
- Department of Organization, Professional Legislation and Management of the Dental Office, Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 17-23 Plevnei Street, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Marina Meleșcanu Imre
- Department of Prosthodontics, Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 17-23 Calea Plevnei, 010221 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alexandra Ripszky Totan
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 17-23 Plevnei Street, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andreea Letiția Arsene
- Department of General and Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 6 Traian Vuia Street, 020956 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Bogdan Dimitriu
- Department of Endodontics, Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 17-23 Plevnei Street, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Delia Radoi
- Department of Organization, Professional Legislation and Management of the Dental Office, Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 17-23 Plevnei Street, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Marina-Ionela Ilie
- Department of General and Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 6 Traian Vuia Street, 020956 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Silviu-Mirel Pițuru
- Department of Organization, Professional Legislation and Management of the Dental Office, Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 17-23 Plevnei Street, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
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Skowronski G, Kerridge I, Light E, McErlean G, Stewart C, Preisz A, Sheahan L. Raising the Dead? Limits of CPR and Harms of Defensive Practices. Hastings Cent Rep 2022; 52:8-12. [PMID: 36537273 DOI: 10.1002/hast.1442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
We describe the case of an eighty-four-year-old man with disseminated lung cancer who had been receiving palliative care in the hospital and was found by nursing staff unresponsive, with clinically obvious signs of death, including rigor mortis. Because there was no documentation to the contrary, the nurses commenced cardiopulmonary resuscitation and called a code blue, resulting in resuscitative efforts that continued for around twenty minutes. In discussion with the hospital ethicist, senior nurses justified these actions, mainly citing disciplinary and medicolegal concerns. We argue that moral harms arise from CPR performed on a corpse and that legal concerns about failing to perform it are unfounded. We contend that such efforts are an unintended consequence of managerialist policies mandating do-not-resuscitate orders and advance care plans and of defensive practices that can value the interests of institutions and practitioners over those of patients. Health management teaching should include managerialism and its pitfalls, while clinician training should prioritize ethical reasoning and legal knowledge over defensive practice.
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Andreucci A, Skovdal Rathleff M, Ørskov Reuther F, Hussein M, Rahimzai S, Linnemann TD, Johansen SK. “I had already tried that before going to the doctor” – exploring adolescents’ with knee pain perspectives on ‘wait and see’ as a management strategy in primary care; a study with brief semi-structured qualitative interviews. Scand J Pain 2022; 23:341-352. [PMID: 36279174 DOI: 10.1515/sjpain-2022-0038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
The aim of this study was to examine how the “wait-and-see” recommendation affects adolescents’ understanding of their illness and symptoms and their care-seeking behavior.
Methods
This study included brief qualitative, semi-structured online interviews. Adolescents (age 10–19 years) with long-term knee pain, who had been recommended “wait-and-see” by their general practitioner (GP), were recruited via previous studies and social media. Two researchers conducted brief semi-structured interviews through Microsoft Teams. An interview guide with open questions was created prior to the interviews and updated as new questions emerged. The extracted data was transcribed and analyzed via a reflexive thematic approach in NVivo.
Results
Eight adolescents (mean age 17.8) with longstanding or recurrent knee pain (mean duration 3.5 years) were included. The analysis identified four main themes: (1) The perception of wait and see over time, (2) The GP’s acknowledgement and consideration, (3) experienced limitation from knee pain and (4) the importance of getting a diagnosis. The perception of “wait-and-see” approach changed from positive to negative when adolescents received the recommendation multiple times. Adolescents experienced frustration with their situation and a lack of consideration from their GP made them cautious about seeking additional care. Knee pain significantly limited the adolescents’ physical-and social activities. Receiving a diagnosis was important and helped adolescents dealing with their pain.
Conclusions
The connotation of wait-and-see changed from positive to negative for adolescents when receiving the recommendation multiple times. The participants felt getting a clinical diagnosis was a relief. Furthermore, the lack of consideration and acknowledgement from the GP plays an essential role in the adolescent’s understanding of their knee pain.
Implications
Recommending adolescents to “wait-and-see” multiple times in relation to their knee problems can lead adolescents experience frustration and a lack of consideration from their GP. It would be advisable for GPs to provide adolescents with a diagnosis as it can facilitate them in dealing with their pain and to use simple language when explaining adolescents their condition to improve communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Andreucci
- Department of Clinical Medicine , Center for General Practice at Aalborg University, Aalborg University , Aalborg East , Denmark
| | - Michael Skovdal Rathleff
- Department of Clinical Medicine , Center for General Practice at Aalborg University, Aalborg University , Aalborg East , Denmark
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine , Aalborg University , Aalborg , Denmark
| | - Frederikke Ørskov Reuther
- Department of Clinical Medicine , Center for General Practice at Aalborg University, Aalborg University , Aalborg East , Denmark
| | - Mariann Hussein
- Department of Clinical Medicine , Center for General Practice at Aalborg University, Aalborg University , Aalborg East , Denmark
| | - Sultana Rahimzai
- Department of Clinical Medicine , Center for General Practice at Aalborg University, Aalborg University , Aalborg East , Denmark
| | - Trine Dorthea Linnemann
- Department of Clinical Medicine , Center for General Practice at Aalborg University, Aalborg University , Aalborg East , Denmark
| | - Simon Kristoffer Johansen
- Department of Clinical Medicine , Center for General Practice at Aalborg University, Aalborg University , Aalborg East , Denmark
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Gibson J, White K, Mossop L, Oxtoby C, Brennan M. 'We're gonna end up scared to do anything': A qualitative exploration of how client complaints are experienced by UK veterinary practitioners. Vet Rec 2022; 191:e1737. [PMID: 35661168 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.1737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND UK veterinary practitioners are reported to be fearful of client complaints, but their experiences have not been formally captured. Understanding how complaints impact veterinary practitioners is key to mitigating detrimental consequences. METHODS A qualitative exploration of how UK veterinary practitioners experience and respond to adverse events was conducted. Data were collected via focus groups and interviews, which were transcribed and simultaneously analysed. Coding and theme development were inductive rather than restricted by preconceived theories. RESULTS Twelve focus groups and 15 individual interviews took place. One theme identified focused on the impact of client complaints. Practitioners experienced unintentional distraction and disengagement from clinical work, as well as employing defensive strategies as a direct result of complaints. The vexatious nature of some complainants was highlighted, along with concerns about practice and regulatory complaint management, lack of appropriate support, discriminatory behaviours and the influence of 'trial by media'. CONCLUSIONS Client complaints present a threat to practitioner mental health and workforce sustainability, as well as having implications for patient safety. Mitigating these effects is a complex and multifaceted undertaking, but fairness, transparency and timeliness of practice and regulatory complaint investigation must be prioritised, along with provision of tailored support for those facing complaints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Gibson
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, UK.,Centre for Evidence Based Veterinary Medicine, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, UK
| | - Kate White
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, UK
| | - Liz Mossop
- Vice Chancellors Office, University of Lincoln, Brayford Campus, Lincoln, UK
| | | | - Marnie Brennan
- Centre for Evidence Based Veterinary Medicine, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, UK
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Ries NM, Johnston B, Jansen J. A qualitative interview study of Australian physicians on defensive practice and low value care: "it's easier to talk about our fear of lawyers than to talk about our fear of looking bad in front of each other". BMC Med Ethics 2022; 23:16. [PMID: 35246129 PMCID: PMC8895622 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-022-00755-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Defensive practice occurs when physicians provide services, such as tests, treatments and referrals, mainly to reduce their perceived legal or reputational risks, rather than to advance patient care. This behaviour is counter to physicians’ ethical responsibilities, yet is widely reported in surveys of doctors in various countries. There is a lack of qualitative research on the drivers of defensive practice, which is needed to inform strategies to prevent this ethically problematic behaviour. Methods A qualitative interview study investigated the views and experiences of physicians in Australia on defensive practice and its contribution to low value care. Interviewees were recruited based on interest in medico-legal issues or experience in a health service involved in ‘Choosing Wisely’ initiatives. Semi-structured interviews averaged 60 min in length. Data were coded using the Theoretical Domains Framework, which encapsulates theories of behaviour and behaviour change. Results All participants (n = 17) perceived defensive practice as a problem and a contributor to low value care. Behavioural drivers of defensive practice spanned seven domains in the TDF: knowledge, focused on inadequate knowledge of the law and the risks of low value care; skills, emphasising patient communication and clinical decision-making skills; professional role and identity, particularly clinicians’ perception of patient expectations and concern for their professional reputation; beliefs about consequences, especially perceptions of the beneficial and harmful consequences of defensive practice; environmental context and resources, including processes for handling patient complaints; social influences, focused on group norms that encourage or discourage defensive behaviour; and emotions, especially fear of missing a diagnosis. Overall, defensive practice is motivated by physicians’ desire to avoid criticism or scrutiny from a range of sources, and censure from their professional peers can be a more potent driver than perceived legal consequences. Conclusions The findings call for strengthening knowledge and skills, for example, to improve clinicians’ understanding of the law and their awareness of the risks of low value care and using effective communication strategies with patients. Importantly, supportive cultures of practice and organisational environments are needed to create conditions in which clinicians feel confident in avoiding defensive practice and other forms of low value care. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12910-022-00755-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nola M Ries
- Faculty of Law, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia.
| | - Briony Johnston
- Faculty of Law, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Jesse Jansen
- School for Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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15
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Baungaard N, Skovvang PL, Assing Hvidt E, Gerbild H, Kirstine Andersen M, Lykkegaard J. How defensive medicine is defined in European medical literature: a systematic review. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e057169. [PMID: 35058268 PMCID: PMC8783809 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-057169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Defensive medicine has originally been defined as motivated by fear of malpractice litigation. However, the term is frequently used in Europe where most countries have a no-fault malpractice system. The objectives of this systematic review were to explore the definition of the term 'defensive medicine' in European original medical literature and to identify the motives stated therein. DESIGN Systematic review. DATA SOURCES PubMed, Embase and Cochrane, 3 February 2020, with an updated search on 6 March 2021. METHODS Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses, we reviewed all European original peer-reviewed studies fully or partially investigating 'defensive medicine'. RESULTS We identified a total of 50 studies. First, we divided these into two categories: the first category consisting of studies defining defensive medicine by using a narrow definition and the second category comprising studies in which defensive medicine was defined using a broad definition. In 23 of the studies(46%), defensive medicine was defined narrowly as: health professionals' deviation from sound medical practice motivated by a wish to reduce exposure to malpractice litigation. In 27 studies (54%), a broad definition was applied adding … or other self-protective motives. These self-protective motives, different from fear of malpractice litigation, were grouped into four categories: fear of patient dissatisfaction, fear of overlooking a severe diagnosis, fear of negative publicity and unconscious defensive medicine. Studies applying the narrow and broad definitions of defensive medicine did not differ regarding publication year, country, medical specialty, research quality or number of citations. CONCLUSIONS In European research, the narrow definition of defensive medicine as exclusively motivated by fear of litigation is often broadened to include other self-protective motives. In order to compare results pertaining to defensive medicine across countries, future studies are recommended to specify whether they are using the narrow or broad definition of defensive medicine. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42020167215.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Baungaard
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Pia Ladeby Skovvang
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Elisabeth Assing Hvidt
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department for the Study of Culture, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Helle Gerbild
- Health Sciences Research Centre, UCL University College, Odense, Denmark
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - Merethe Kirstine Andersen
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Jesper Lykkegaard
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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16
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Andersen MK, Hvidt EA, Pedersen KM, Lykkegaard J, Waldorff FB, Munck AP, Pedersen LB. Defensive medicine in Danish general practice. Types of defensive actions and reasons for practicing defensively. Scand J Prim Health Care 2021; 39:413-418. [PMID: 34463601 PMCID: PMC8725848 DOI: 10.1080/02813432.2021.1970945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the occurrence of and types of defensive medicine (DM), and the reasons for practicing DM in general practice. DESIGN Prospective survey registration of consecutive consultations regarding defensive medicine defined as: Actions that are not professionally well founded but are carried out due to demands and pressure. The GPs registered the degree of defensiveness, the type(s) of defensive action(s) and the reason(s) for acting defensively. SETTING Danish general practice. SUBJECTS A total of 26 GPs registered a total of 1,758 consultations. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Defensive medical actions. RESULTS Defensive actions were performed in 12% (210/1749) of all consultations. A fifth (46/210) of the defensive actions were characterised by the GPs as 'moderately' or 'highly' defensive. Frequent types of defensive actions were: blood tests, point-of-care-tests (POCTs) and referrals. Common reasons for defensive actions were: Influence from patients, 37% (78/210), concerns of overlooking severe disease, 32% (67/210) and influence from patient relatives, 12% (25/210). CONCLUSION Danish GPs registered self-perceived defensive actions in a prospective survey. DM was carried out in one out of eight consultations, most often due to patient influence. The most frequent defensive actions were blood tests, POCTs and referrals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merethe K. Andersen
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- CONTACT Merethe K. Andersen , Research unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, J. B. Winsløwsvej 9A, Odense5000, Denmark
| | - Elisabeth Assing Hvidt
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department for the Study of Culture, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Kjeld M. Pedersen
- Department of Business and Economics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Jesper Lykkegaard
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Frans B. Waldorff
- Research Unit for General Practice and Section of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders P. Munck
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Line B. Pedersen
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- DaCHE – Danish Centre for Health Economics, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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17
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Rønne ST, Rosenbæk F, Pedersen LB, Waldorff FB, Nielsen JB, Riisgaard H, Søndergaard J. Physicians' experiences, attitudes, and beliefs towards medical cannabis: a systematic literature review. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2021; 22:212. [PMID: 34674661 PMCID: PMC8532330 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-021-01559-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Background An increasing number of countries legalise the use of medical cannabis or allow it for a narrow range of medical conditions. Physicians, and often the patients’ general practitioner, play a major role in implementing this policy. Many of them, however, perceive a lack of evidence-based knowledge and are not confident with providing patients with medical cannabis. The objectives of this review are to synthesise findings about hospital physicians’ and GPs’ experiences, attitudes, and beliefs towards the use of medical cannabis with the purpose of identifying barriers and facilitators towards providing it to their patients. Methods Peer-reviewed articles addressing hospital physicians’ and GPs’ experiences, attitudes, and beliefs towards the use of medical cannabis were searched systematically in PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library. Results Twenty-one articles were included from five different countries in which the medical cannabis laws varied. The studied physicians experienced frequent inquiries about medical cannabis from their patients (49–95%), and between 10 and 95% of the physicians were willing to prescribe and/or provide it to the patients, depending on setting, specialty and experience among the physicians. This review found that physicians experienced in prescribing medical cannabis were more convinced of its benefits and less worried about adverse effects than non-experienced physicians. However, physicians specialized in addiction treatment and certain relevant indication areas seemed more sceptical compared to physicians in general. Nevertheless, physicians generally experienced a lack of knowledge of clinical effects including both beneficial and adverse effects. Conclusion This review indicates that GPs and hospital physicians from various specialties frequently experience patient demands for medical cannabis and to some degree show openness to using it, although there was a wide gap between studies in terms of willingness to provide. Hospital physicians and GPs’ experienced in prescribing are more convinced of effects and less worried of adverse effects. However, most physicians experience a lack of knowledge of beneficial effects, adverse effects and of how to advise patients, which may comprise barriers towards prescribing. More research, including larger studies with cohort designs and qualitative studies, is needed to further examine facilitators and barriers to physicians’ prescribing practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Trappaud Rønne
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, J.B. Winsløws Vej 9A, 5000, Odense C, Denmark
| | - Frederik Rosenbæk
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, J.B. Winsløws Vej 9A, 5000, Odense C, Denmark.
| | - Line Bjørnskov Pedersen
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, J.B. Winsløws Vej 9A, 5000, Odense C, Denmark.,DaCHE - Danish Centre for Health Economics, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Winsløws Vej 9B, 5000, Odense C, Denmark
| | - Frans Boch Waldorff
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, J.B. Winsløws Vej 9A, 5000, Odense C, Denmark.,The Research Unit for General Practice and Section of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jesper Bo Nielsen
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, J.B. Winsløws Vej 9A, 5000, Odense C, Denmark
| | - Helle Riisgaard
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, J.B. Winsløws Vej 9A, 5000, Odense C, Denmark
| | - Jens Søndergaard
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, J.B. Winsløws Vej 9A, 5000, Odense C, Denmark
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18
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Abstract
AIM Defensive medicine refers to practices with low marginal benefit to patients that doctors may undertake to protect themselves from legal liability. We aimed to develop a scale to measure the practice of defensive medicine. METHOD We identified aspects of defensive medicine previously reported in the literature and conducted and analyzed semi-structured interviews with 21 physicians in Sakarya to augment and clarify these aspects between May 15, 2018, and June 15, 2018. Informed by these results, we developed, pilot tested, refined, and fielded a 10-item survey to 1724 doctors in Turkey between April 1, 2019, and July 16, 2019. We examined the psychometric properties of the scale using exploratory (EFA) and confirmatory factor analyses (CFA). RESULTS The 10-item scale provided measures of 2 factors: positive defensive medicine (assurance) and negative defensive medicine (avoidance), with Cronbach's alpha >0.8 for the scale and both subscales in both the EFA and CFA subsamples and excellent goodness-of-fit measures. CONCLUSIONS We developed a highly reliable scale to measure positive and negative defensive medicine practice that may be suitable for future research on physician decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Özgün Ünal
- Department of Healthcare Management, Business Faculty, Sakarya University, Sakarya, Turkey
| | - Mahmut Akbolat
- Department of Healthcare Management, Business Faculty, Sakarya University, Sakarya, Turkey
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Analysis of General Practitioners' Attitudes and Beliefs about Psychological Intervention and the Medicine-Psychology Relationship in Primary Care: Toward a New Comprehensive Approach to Primary Health Care. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:healthcare9050613. [PMID: 34069738 PMCID: PMC8161354 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9050613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The biopsychosocial paradigm is a model of care that has been proposed in order to improve the effectiveness of health care by promoting collaboration between different professions and disciplines. However, its application still faces several issues. A quantitative-qualitative survey was conducted on a sample of general practitioners (GPs) from Milan, Italy, to investigate their attitudes and beliefs regarding the role of the psychologist, the approach adopted to manage psychological diseases, and their experiences of collaboration with psychologists. The results show a partial view of the psychologist's profession that limits the potential of integration between medicine and psychology in primary care. GPs recognized that many patients (66%) would often benefit from psychological intervention, but only in a few cases (9%) were these patients regularly referred to a psychologist. Furthermore, the referral represents an almost exclusive form of collaboration present in the opinions of GPs. Only 8% of GPs would consider the joint and integrated work of the psychologist and doctor useful within the primary health care setting. This vision of the role of psychologists among GPs represents a constraint in implementing a comprehensive primary health care approach, as advocated by the World Health Organization.
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20
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Sartelli M, Ansaloni L, Bartoletti M, Catena F, Cardi M, Cortese F, Di Marzo F, Pea F, Plebani M, Rossolini GM, Sganga G, Viaggi B, Viale P. The role of procalcitonin in reducing antibiotics across the surgical pathway. World J Emerg Surg 2021; 16:15. [PMID: 33761972 PMCID: PMC7988639 DOI: 10.1186/s13017-021-00357-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Procalcitonin (PCT) is widely considered as a highly sensitive biomarker of bacterial infection, offering general and emergency surgeons a key tool in the management of surgical infections. A multidisciplinary task force of experts met in Bologna, Italy, on April 4, 2019, to clarify the key issues in the use of PCT across the surgical pathway. The panelists presented the statements developed for each of the main questions regarding the use of PCT across the surgical pathway. An agreement on the statements was reached by the Delphi method, and this document reports the executive summary of the final recommendations approved by the expert panel.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Michele Bartoletti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Infectious Disease Unit, S. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Fausto Catena
- Department of Emergency Surgery, Parma Maggiore Hospital, Parma, Italy
| | - Maurizio Cardi
- Department of Surgery, “P. Valdoni” Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Cortese
- Department of Emergency Surgery, San Filippo Neri Hospital, Roma, Italy
| | | | - Federico Pea
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- S. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Mario Plebani
- Department of Medicine, Laboratory Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Gian Maria Rossolini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Clinical Microbiology and Virology Unit, Florence Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Gabriele Sganga
- Emergency Surgery and Trauma, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Bruno Viaggi
- Neurointensive Care Unit, Department of Anesthesiology, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Pierluigi Viale
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Infectious Disease Unit, S. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
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21
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Hüsing P, Löwe B, Olde Hartman TC, Frostholm L, Weigel A. Helpful explanatory models for somatoform symptoms (HERMES): study protocol of a randomised mixed-methods pilot trial. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e044244. [PMID: 33762239 PMCID: PMC7993177 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-044244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Persistent somatic symptoms (PSS) are common both in the general population and primary care. They are bothersome in terms of psychological and somatic symptom burden. Health professionals often struggle with communication, as there is a lack of scientifically supported explanatory models for PSS or a focus merely on somatic aspects of the complaints, which both frustrate patients' needs. The objective of the present study is therefore to develop a psychoeducational intervention based on a current evidence-based explanatory model, to examine its feasibility and form the basis for a large-scale randomised controlled trial. METHODS AND ANALYSIS In a randomised controlled mixed-methods pilot trial, 75 adult psychosomatic outpatients with PSS (duration of symptoms ≥6 months) and accompanying psychological (Somatic Symptom B-Criteria Scale total score ≥18) and somatic symptom burden (Patient Health Questionnaire-15 score >10) and no prior psychosomatic treatment will be eligible. Participants will be presented with either the explanatory model without (intervention group 1, n=25) or with elements of personalisation (intervention group 2, n=25). Participants in the control group (n=25) will receive information on current PSS guidelines. Participants will be blinded to group assignment and interventions will be shown on tablet computers at the outpatient clinic. After 1 month, qualitative follow-up telephone interviews will be conducted. As primary outcomes, mean changes in psychological and somatic symptom burden will quantitatively be compared between groups, respectively. Behavioural change mechanisms and feasibility of the three interventions will be evaluated using quantitative and qualitative measures. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics approval has been granted by the medical ethics board of the Hamburg Medical Chamber (PV5653). Results from this study will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at national and international conferences. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER DRKS00018803.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Hüsing
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Bernd Löwe
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tim C Olde Hartman
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Lisbeth Frostholm
- Research Clinic for Functional Disorders and Psychosomatics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Angelika Weigel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Physicians' views and experiences of defensive medicine: An international review of empirical research. Health Policy 2021; 125:634-642. [PMID: 33676778 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2021.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
This study systematically maps empirical research on physicians' views and experiences of hedging-type defensive medicine, which involves providing services (eg, tests, referrals) to reduce perceived legal risks. Such practices drive over-treatment and low value healthcare. Data sources were empirical, English-language publications in health, legal and multi-disciplinary databases. The extraction framework covered: where and when the research was conducted; what methods of data collection were used; who the study participants were; and what were the study aims, main findings in relation to hedging-type defensive practices, and proposed solutions. 79 papers met inclusion criteria. Defensive medicine has mainly been studied in the United States and European countries using quantitative surveys. Surgery and obstetrics have been key fields of investigation. Hedging-type practices were commonly reported, including: ordering unnecessary tests, treatments and referrals; suggesting invasive procedures against professional judgment; ordering hospitalisation or delaying discharge; and excessive documentation in medical records. Defensive practice was often framed around the threat of negligence lawsuits, but studies recognised other legal risks, including patient complaints and regulatory investigations. Potential solutions to defensive medicine were identified at macro (law, policy), meso (organisation, profession) and micro (physician) levels. Areas for future research include qualitative studies to investigate the behavioural drivers of defensive medicine and intervention research to determine policies and practices that work to support clinicians in de-implementing defensive, low-value care.
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23
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Laarman BS, Bouwman RJR, de Veer AJE, Friele RD. Is the perceived impact of disciplinary procedures on medical doctors' professional practice associated with working in an open culture and feeling supported? A questionnaire among medical doctors in the Netherlands who have been disciplined. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e036922. [PMID: 33243787 PMCID: PMC7692813 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-036922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Disciplinary procedures can have a negative impact on the professional functioning of medical doctors. In this questionnaire study, doctors' experience with open culture and support during a disciplinary procedure is studied to determine whether open culture and support are associated with perceived changes in the professional practice of doctors. METHODS All doctors who received a warning or a reprimand from the Dutch Medical Disciplinary Board between July 2012 and August 2016 were invited to fill in a 60-item questionnaire concerning open culture, perceived support during the disciplinary procedure and the impact of the procedure on professional functioning as reported by doctors themselves. The response rate was 43% (n=294). RESULTS A majority of doctors perceive their work environment as a safe environment in which to talk about and report incidents (71.2% agreed). Respondents felt supported by a lawyer or legal representative and colleagues (92.8% and 89.2%, respectively). The disciplinary procedure had effects on professional practice. Legal support and support from a professional confidant and a professional association were associated with fewer perceived changes to professional practice. CONCLUSION Our study shows that doctors who had been disciplined perceive their working environment as open. Doctors felt supported by lawyers and/or legal representatives and colleagues. Legal support was associated with less of a perceived impact on doctors' professional practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berber S Laarman
- Faculty of Law, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Roland D Friele
- Nivel; TRANZO (Scientific Centre for Care and Welfare), Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
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Møllebaek M, Kaae S. Why do general practitioners disregard direct to healthcare professional communication? A user-oriented evaluation to improve drug safety communication. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2020; 128:463-471. [PMID: 33043558 DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.13516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Post-approval drug risks are a significant public health problem. A central instrument to mitigate them in the European Union is direct to healthcare professional communications (DHPC), typically a letter sent from the manufacturer to prescribers. However, evaluations show that DHPCs have limited impact on prescribing behavior. Which factors influence prescribers' lack of adoption of DHPCs remains unknown. This article presents a think-aloud reading study of 17 Danish general practitioners' reading aloud a 2013 DHPC about new oral anticoagulants, interjecting their immediate reactions and associations to daily clinical routines concurrently. We found that interviewees inferred more from the DHPC than risk information. It was perceived to be commercially biased, which generally discouraged reading despite learning new safety information. DHPCs were also disregarded because they are isolated from routinely used clinical information sources. Furthermore, DHPCs were perceived as pre-emptive acts of legal defence aiming to relocate responsibility from the manufacturer onto prescribers. In conclusion, the study indicates that certain DHPCs may be disregarded because of the perceived motivations that prescribers attribute to the DHPC senders. While the specific letter itself was deemed unsatisfactory, its legitimacy among prescribers remains the central challenge. Further integration with trusted and established information structures is also needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathias Møllebaek
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Copenhagen Centre for Regulatory Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Social and Clinical Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Susanne Kaae
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Social and Clinical Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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25
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Garattini L, Padula A. Defensive medicine in Europe: a 'full circle'? THE EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH ECONOMICS : HEPAC : HEALTH ECONOMICS IN PREVENTION AND CARE 2020; 21:477-482. [PMID: 31919702 DOI: 10.1007/s10198-019-01151-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Livio Garattini
- CESAV, Centre for Health Economics, Institute for Pharmacological Research Mario Negri IRCCS, 24020, Ranica, Italy.
| | - Anna Padula
- CESAV, Centre for Health Economics, Institute for Pharmacological Research Mario Negri IRCCS, 24020, Ranica, Italy
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Garattini L, Padula A, Mannucci PM. Defensive medicine: Everything and its opposite. Eur J Intern Med 2020; 74:117-118. [PMID: 32001095 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2020.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Garattini L, Padula A. Defensive medicine in Europe: a 'full circle'? THE EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH ECONOMICS : HEPAC : HEALTH ECONOMICS IN PREVENTION AND CARE 2020; 21:165-170. [PMID: 31879861 DOI: 10.1007/s10198-019-01144-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Livio Garattini
- CESAV, Centre for Health Economics, Institute for Pharmacological Research Mario Negri IRCCS, 24020, Ranica, Italy.
| | - Anna Padula
- CESAV, Centre for Health Economics, Institute for Pharmacological Research Mario Negri IRCCS, 24020, Ranica, Italy
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Baungaard N, Skovvang P, Assing Hvidt E, Gerbild H, Kirstine Andersen M, Lykkegaard J. How defensive medicine is defined and understood in European medical literature: protocol for a systematic review. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e034300. [PMID: 32114473 PMCID: PMC7050374 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-034300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The term defensive medicine, referring to actions motivated primarily by litigious concerns, originates from the USA and has been used in medical research literature since the late 1960s. Differences in medical legal systems between the US and most European countries with no tort legislation raise the question whether the US definition of defensive medicine holds true in Europe. AIM To present the protocol of a systematic review investigating variations in definitions and understandings of the term 'defensive medicine' in European research articles. METHODS AND ANALYSIS In concordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, a systematic review of all medical research literature that investigate defensive medicine will be performed by two independent reviewers. The databases PubMed, Embase and Cochrane will be systematically searched on the basis of predetermined criteria. Data from all included European studies will systematically be extracted including the studies' definitions and understandings of defensive medicine, especially the motives for doing medical actions that the study regards as 'defensive'. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION No ethics clearance is required as no primary data will be collected. The results of the systematic review will be published in a peer-reviewed, international journal. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER This review has been submitted to International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) and is awaiting registration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Baungaard
- Department of Public Health, Research Unit of General Practice, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Pia Skovvang
- Department of Public Health, Research Unit of General Practice, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Elisabeth Assing Hvidt
- Department of Public Health, Research Unit of General Practice, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department for the Study of Culture, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Helle Gerbild
- Center for Sexology Research, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg Universitet, Aalborg, Denmark
- Health Sciences Research Centre University College, University College Lillebaelt, Campus Odense, Odense, Denmark
| | - Merethe Kirstine Andersen
- Department of Public Health, Research Unit of General Practice, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Jesper Lykkegaard
- Department of Public Health, Research Unit of General Practice, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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van Hessen CV, Roos MM, Sanders FBM, Verleisdonk EJMM, Clevers GJ, Davids PHP, Burgmans JPJ. Recurrence after totally extraperitoneal (TEP) inguinal hernia repair: the role of physical examination and ultrasound. Hernia 2019; 24:153-157. [PMID: 31482397 DOI: 10.1007/s10029-019-02029-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Physical examination (PE) combined with ultrasound (US) is recommended to confirm a recurrent hernia. However, the evidence is rather weak. The aim of this study was to evaluate PE and appraise the added value of US in alleged recurrent inguinal hernias after totally extraperitoneal (TEP) inguinal hernia repair. METHODS All adult patients who were re-operated for suspicion of a recurrent hernia after a primary unilateral or bilateral TEP between 2006 and 2017 were identified and investigated retrospectively. Patient characteristics, PE, additional imaging and intra-operative findings were registered. PE outcomes were compared with intra-operative findings to calculate the positive predictive value (PPV) of PE. In case of clinical doubt, the added value of US was evaluated by comparing US findings with the intra-operative findings. RESULTS A total of 130 patients were re-operated for suspicion of 137 recurrent hernias. In 75 patients, US was performed. PE was positive for an inguinal hernia in 101 groins (73.7%), negative in 30 (21.9%) and inconclusive in 6 (4.4%). PE matched the operative findings in 75.2%. The PPV of diagnosing a recurrent hernia (or lipoma) on PE was 97%. In case of clinical doubt (n = 36), positive US matched the operative findings in 20 cases (87.0%). CONCLUSION US does not necessarily need to be incorporated in the standard diagnostic workup of a recurrent inguinal hernia. After PE alone, a recurrent hernia (or lipoma) can be diagnosed with a PPV of 97%. Only in case of clinical doubt, US has additional value.
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Affiliation(s)
- C V van Hessen
- Hernia Clinic, Department of Surgery, Diakonessenhuis Utrecht/Zeist, Room: Secretariaat Heelkunde, Professor Lorentzlaan 76, 3707 HL, Zeist, The Netherlands.
| | - M M Roos
- Department of General Practice, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht (UMCU), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - F B M Sanders
- Department of Radiology, Diakonessenhuis Utrecht/Zeist, Zeist, The Netherlands
| | - E J M M Verleisdonk
- Hernia Clinic, Department of Surgery, Diakonessenhuis Utrecht/Zeist, Room: Secretariaat Heelkunde, Professor Lorentzlaan 76, 3707 HL, Zeist, The Netherlands
| | - G J Clevers
- Hernia Clinic, Department of Surgery, Diakonessenhuis Utrecht/Zeist, Room: Secretariaat Heelkunde, Professor Lorentzlaan 76, 3707 HL, Zeist, The Netherlands
| | - P H P Davids
- Hernia Clinic, Department of Surgery, Diakonessenhuis Utrecht/Zeist, Room: Secretariaat Heelkunde, Professor Lorentzlaan 76, 3707 HL, Zeist, The Netherlands
| | - J P J Burgmans
- Hernia Clinic, Department of Surgery, Diakonessenhuis Utrecht/Zeist, Room: Secretariaat Heelkunde, Professor Lorentzlaan 76, 3707 HL, Zeist, The Netherlands
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Assing Hvidt E, Bjørnskov Pedersen L, Lykkegaard J, Møller Pedersen K, Andersen MK. A colonized general practice? A critical habermasian analysis of how general practitioners experience defensive medicine in their everyday working life. Health (London) 2019; 25:141-158. [PMID: 31216878 DOI: 10.1177/1363459319857461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this article is to show how Jürgen Habermas' communicative action theory serves as a useful tool in analysing and interpreting empirical data on how Danish general practitioners experience defensive medicine in their everyday working life. Through six qualitative focus group interviews with a total of 28 general practitioners (14 men and 14 women), the general practitioners' understandings of and experiences with defensive medicine were unfolded and discussed. Traditionally, defensive medicine is understood as physicians' deviation from sound medical practice due to fears of liability claims or lawsuits. In this study, however, a broader understanding of defensive medicine emerged as unnecessary medical actions that are more substantiated by feelings of demands and pressures than meaningful clinical behaviour. As a first analytical step, the data are contextualized drawing on the medical sociological literature that has theorized recent changes within primary health care such as regulation, audit, standardization and consumerism. Using Habermas' theorization to further interpret the general practitioners' experiences, we argue that central areas of the general practitioners' clinical everyday work life can be seen as having become subject to the habermasian social and political processes of 'strategic action' and 'colonization'. It is furthermore shown that the general practitioners share an impulse to resist these colonizing processes, hereby pointing to a need for challenging the increasingly defensive medical culture that seems to pervade the organization of general practice today.
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Párniczky A, Lantos T, Tóth EM, Szakács Z, Gódi S, Hágendorn R, Illés D, Koncz B, Márta K, Mikó A, Mosztbacher D, Németh BC, Pécsi D, Szabó A, Szücs Á, Varjú P, Szentesi A, Darvasi E, Erőss B, Izbéki F, Gajdán L, Halász A, Vincze Á, Szabó I, Pár G, Bajor J, Sarlós P, Czimmer J, Hamvas J, Takács T, Szepes Z, Czakó L, Varga M, Novák J, Bod B, Szepes A, Sümegi J, Papp M, Góg C, Török I, Huang W, Xia Q, Xue P, Li W, Chen W, Shirinskaya NV, Poluektov VL, Shirinskaya AV, Hegyi PJ, Bátovský M, Rodriguez-Oballe JA, Salas IM, Lopez-Diaz J, Dominguez-Munoz JE, Molero X, Pando E, Ruiz-Rebollo ML, Burgueño-Gómez B, Chang YT, Chang MC, Sud A, Moore D, Sutton R, Gougol A, Papachristou GI, Susak YM, Tiuliukin IO, Gomes AP, Oliveira MJ, Aparício DJ, Tantau M, Kurti F, Kovacheva-Slavova M, Stecher SS, Mayerle J, Poropat G, Das K, Marino MV, Capurso G, Małecka-Panas E, Zatorski H, Gasiorowska A, Fabisiak N, Ceranowicz P, Kuśnierz-Cabala B, Carvalho JR, Fernandes SR, Chang JH, Choi EK, Han J, Bertilsson S, Jumaa H, Sandblom G, Kacar S, Baltatzis M, Varabei AV, Yeshy V, Chooklin S, Kozachenko A, Veligotsky N, Hegyi P. Antibiotic therapy in acute pancreatitis: From global overuse to evidence based recommendations. Pancreatology 2019; 19:488-499. [PMID: 31068256 DOI: 10.1016/j.pan.2019.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unwarranted administration of antibiotics in acute pancreatitis presents a global challenge. The clinical reasoning behind the misuse is poorly understood. Our aim was to investigate current clinical practices and develop recommendations that guide clinicians in prescribing antibiotic treatment in acute pancreatitis. METHODS Four methods were used. 1) Systematic data collection was performed to summarize current evidence; 2) a retrospective questionnaire was developed to understand the current global clinical practice; 3) five years of prospectively collected data were analysed to identify the clinical parameters used by medical teams in the decision making process, and finally; 4) the UpToDate Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system was applied to provide evidence based recommendations for healthcare professionals. RESULTS The systematic literature search revealed no consensus on the start of AB therapy in patients with no bacterial culture test. Retrospective data collection on 9728 patients from 22 countries indicated a wide range (31-82%) of antibiotic use frequency in AP. Analysis of 56 variables from 962 patients showed that clinicians initiate antibiotic therapy based on increased WBC and/or elevated CRP, lipase and amylase levels. The above mentioned four laboratory parameters showed no association with infection in the early phase of acute pancreatitis. Instead, procalcitonin levels proved to be a better biomarker of early infection. Patients with suspected infection because of fever had no benefit from antibiotic therapy. CONCLUSIONS The authors formulated four consensus statements to urge reduction of unjustified antibiotic treatment in acute pancreatitis and to use procalcitonin rather than WBC or CRP as biomarkers to guide decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Párniczky
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Szentágothai Research Centre, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary; Heim Pál National Insititute of Pediatrics, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tamás Lantos
- Department of Medical Physics and Informatics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Eszter Margit Tóth
- Pándy Kálmán Hospital of Békés County, Gyula, Hungary; First Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Szakács
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Szentágothai Research Centre, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Szilárd Gódi
- Division of Gastroenterology, First Department of Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Roland Hágendorn
- Intesive Care Unit, First Department of Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Dóra Illés
- First Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Balázs Koncz
- First Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Katalin Márta
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Szentágothai Research Centre, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Alexandra Mikó
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Szentágothai Research Centre, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary; Division of Translational Medicine, First Department of Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Dóra Mosztbacher
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Szentágothai Research Centre, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary; First Department of Pediatrics, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Balázs Csaba Németh
- First Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary; Hungarian Academy of Sciences-University of Szeged, Momentum Gastroenterology Multidisciplinary Research Group, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Dániel Pécsi
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Szentágothai Research Centre, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Anikó Szabó
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Szentágothai Research Centre, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Ákos Szücs
- First Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Péter Varjú
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Szentágothai Research Centre, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Andrea Szentesi
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Szentágothai Research Centre, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary; First Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Erika Darvasi
- First Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Bálint Erőss
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Szentágothai Research Centre, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Ferenc Izbéki
- Szent György University Teaching Hospital of Fejér County, Székesfehérvár, Hungary
| | - László Gajdán
- Szent György University Teaching Hospital of Fejér County, Székesfehérvár, Hungary
| | - Adrienn Halász
- Szent György University Teaching Hospital of Fejér County, Székesfehérvár, Hungary
| | - Áron Vincze
- Division of Gastroenterology, First Department of Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Imre Szabó
- Division of Gastroenterology, First Department of Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Gabriella Pár
- Division of Gastroenterology, First Department of Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Judit Bajor
- Division of Gastroenterology, First Department of Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Patrícia Sarlós
- Division of Gastroenterology, First Department of Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - József Czimmer
- Division of Gastroenterology, First Department of Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | | | - Tamás Takács
- First Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Szepes
- First Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - László Czakó
- First Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | | | - János Novák
- Pándy Kálmán Hospital of Békés County, Gyula, Hungary
| | | | | | - János Sümegi
- Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County Hospital and University Teaching Hospital, Miskolc, Hungary
| | - Mária Papp
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Csaba Góg
- Healthcare Center of County Csongrád, Makó, Hungary
| | - Imola Török
- County Emergency Clinical Hospital of Targu Mures Hospital, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology of Targu Mures, Targu Mures, Romania
| | - Wei Huang
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Pancreatitis Centre and West China-Liverpool Biomedical Research Centre, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qing Xia
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Pancreatitis Centre and West China-Liverpool Biomedical Research Centre, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ping Xue
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shangjin Hospital, West China Medical School of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Weiqin Li
- Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU), Department of General Surgery, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Weiwei Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Subei People's Hospital of Jiangsu Province, Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Natalia V Shirinskaya
- Omsk State Medical Information-Analytical Centre, Omsk State Clinical Emergency Hospital #2, Omsk, Russia
| | | | - Anna V Shirinskaya
- Department of Surgery and Urology, Omsk State Medical University, Omsk, Russia
| | - Péter Jenő Hegyi
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Szentágothai Research Centre, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary; Departement of Gastroenterology Slovak Medical University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Marian Bátovský
- Departement of Gastroenterology Slovak Medical University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Juan Armando Rodriguez-Oballe
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital Santa María - University Hospital Arnau de Vilanova, Lerida, Spain
| | - Isabel Miguel Salas
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital Santa María - University Hospital Arnau de Vilanova, Lerida, Spain
| | - Javier Lopez-Diaz
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - J Enrique Dominguez-Munoz
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Xavier Molero
- Exocrine Pancreas Research Unit, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron - Institut de Recerca, Autonomous University of Barcelona, CIBEREHD, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elizabeth Pando
- Department of Hepato-pancreato-biliary and Transplat Surgery, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Beatriz Burgueño-Gómez
- Digestive Diseases Department Clinical University Hospital of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Yu-Ting Chang
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Chu Chang
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ajay Sud
- Liverpool Pancreatitis Research Group, University of Liverpool and the Royal Liverpool and Broadgreen University Hospital Trust, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Danielle Moore
- Liverpool Pancreatitis Research Group, University of Liverpool and the Royal Liverpool and Broadgreen University Hospital Trust, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Sutton
- Liverpool Pancreatitis Research Group, University of Liverpool and the Royal Liverpool and Broadgreen University Hospital Trust, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Amir Gougol
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Georgios I Papachristou
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | | | - António Pedro Gomes
- Department of Surgery, Hospital Prof. Dr. Fernando Fonseca, Amadora, Portugal
| | | | - David João Aparício
- Department of Surgery, Hospital Prof. Dr. Fernando Fonseca, Amadora, Portugal
| | - Marcel Tantau
- Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Department of Internal Medicine, 3rd Medical Clinic and "Prof. Dr. Octavian Fodor" Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Floreta Kurti
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Center "Mother Theresa", Tirana, Albania
| | - Mila Kovacheva-Slavova
- University Hospital "Tsaritsa Ioanna - ISUL", Departement of Gastroenterology, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | | | - Julia Mayerle
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany
| | - Goran Poropat
- Department of Gastroenterology, Clinical Hospital Center Rijeka, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Kshaunish Das
- Division of Gastroenterology, School of Digestive and Liver Diseases, IPGME &R, Kolkata, India
| | - Marco Vito Marino
- Azienda Ospedaliera Ospedali Riuniti Villa Sofia-Cervello, Palermo, Italy
| | - Gabriele Capurso
- PancreatoBiliary Endoscopy and EUS Division, Pancreas Translational and Clinical Research Center, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Vita Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Ewa Małecka-Panas
- Department of Digestive Tract Diseases, Medical University of Lodz, Poland
| | - Hubert Zatorski
- Department of Digestive Tract Diseases, Medical University of Lodz, Poland
| | | | - Natalia Fabisiak
- Department of Gastroenterology Medical University of Lodz, Poland
| | - Piotr Ceranowicz
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Beata Kuśnierz-Cabala
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Joana Rita Carvalho
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, North Lisbon Hospital Center, Hospital Santa Maria, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Samuel Raimundo Fernandes
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, North Lisbon Hospital Center, Hospital Santa Maria, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Jae Hyuck Chang
- Bucheon St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Kwang Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Jeju National University College of Medicine, Jeju, South Korea
| | - Jimin Han
- Department of Internal Medicine, Daegu Catholic University Medical Center, Daegu Catholic University School of Medicine, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Sara Bertilsson
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden; Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Hanaz Jumaa
- Eskilstuna Hospital, Mälarsjukhuset, Eskilstuna, Sweden
| | - Gabriel Sandblom
- Department of Clinical Science and Education Södersjukhuset, Karolinska Institutet, Department of Surgery, Södersjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sabite Kacar
- Department of Gastroenterology Türkiye Yüksek İhtisas Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Minas Baltatzis
- Manchester Royal Infirmary Hospital, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | | | - Vizhynis Yeshy
- Department of Surgery, Belarusian Medical Academy Postgraduate Education, Minsk, Belarus
| | | | - Andriy Kozachenko
- Kharkiv Emergency Hospital, Medical Faculty of V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University, Kharkiv, Ukraine
| | - Nikolay Veligotsky
- Department Thoraco-abdominal Surgery Kharkov Medical Academy Postgraduate Education, Kharkov, Ukraine
| | - Péter Hegyi
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Szentágothai Research Centre, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary; First Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary; Division of Translational Medicine, First Department of Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary; Hungarian Academy of Sciences-University of Szeged, Momentum Gastroenterology Multidisciplinary Research Group, Szeged, Hungary.
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Laarman BS, Bouwman RJ, de Veer AJ, Hendriks M, Friele RD. How do doctors in the Netherlands perceive the impact of disciplinary procedures and disclosure of disciplinary measures on their professional practice, health and career opportunities? A questionnaire among medical doctors who received a disciplinary measure. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e023576. [PMID: 30878977 PMCID: PMC6429727 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-023576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Disciplinary procedures can have serious consequences for the health, personal life and professional functioning of doctors. Until recently, specific disciplinary measures (reprimands) were publicly disclosed in the Netherlands. The perceived additional impact of disclosing reprimands on the professional and personal life of doctors is unclear. METHODS All doctors who received a disciplinary measure from the Dutch Disciplinary Board between July 2012 and August 2016 were invited to partake in a 60-item questionnaire concerning the respondents' characteristics, the complaint, experience with the procedure and perceived impact of the procedure on health and professional functioning as reported by doctors themselves. The response rate was 43% (n=210). 21.4% received a reprimand (disclosed); the remainder received a warning (not disclosed). Differences between the two groups were calculated. RESULTS Respondents with a reprimand reported significantly more negative experiences and impact on health and work than respondents with a warning. 37.8% of the doctors said their health was very good. A small percentage reported moderate-to-severe depressive complaints (3.6%), moderate-to-severe anxiety disorder (2%) or indications of burnout (10.8%). The majority reported changes in their professional practices associated with 'defensive medicine', such as doing more supplementary research (41%) and complying more with patients' wishes (35%). CONCLUSION The Dutch disciplinary procedure has strong negative side effects, that disclosing measures seems to increase. Dutch disciplinary law aims to contribute to the quality of professional practice. A safe environment is a basic condition for quality improvement and therefore, disclosure of disciplinary measures should be carefully considered. Disclosure of disciplinary measures has always been controversial and the results of this study has rekindled this debate. Recently, a majority in the Dutch House of Representatives has voted against disclosure of reprimands, leaving disclosure of reprimands a discretion of the disciplinary board when deemed appropriate or necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berber S Laarman
- Faculty of Law, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Renée Jr Bouwman
- NIVEL, Netherlands institute for health services research, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Anke Je de Veer
- NIVEL, Netherlands institute for health services research, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Roland D Friele
- NIVEL, Netherlands institute for health services research, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Vento S, Cainelli F, Vallone A. Defensive medicine: It is time to finally slow down an epidemic. World J Clin Cases 2018; 6:406-409. [PMID: 30294604 PMCID: PMC6163143 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v6.i11.406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Revised: 07/05/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Defensive medicine is widespread and practiced the world over, with serious consequences for patients, doctors, and healthcare costs. Even students and residents are exposed to defensive medicine practices and taught to take malpractice liability into consideration when making clinical decisions. Defensive medicine is generally thought to stem from physicians’ perception that they can easily be sued by patients or their relatives who seek compensation for presumed medical errors. However, in our view the growth of defensive medicine should be seen in the context of larger changes in the conception of medicine that have taken place in the last few decades, undermining the patient–physician trust, which has traditionally been the main source of professional satisfaction for physicians. These changes include the following: time directly spent with patients has been overtaken by time devoted to electronic health records and desk work; family doctors have played a progressively less central role; clinical reasoning is being replaced by guidelines and algorithms; the public at large and a number of young physicians tend to believe that medicine is a perfect science rather than an imperfect art, as it continues to be; and modern societies do not tolerate the inevitable morbidity and mortality. To finally reduce the increasing defensive behavior of doctors around the world, the decriminalization of medical errors and the assurance that they can be dealt with in civil courts or by medical organizations in all countries could help but it would not suffice. Physicians and surgeons should be allowed to spend the time they need with their patients and should give clinical reasoning the importance it deserves. The institutions should support the doctors who have experienced adverse patient events, and the media should stop reporting with excessive evidence presumed medical errors and subject physicians to “public trials” before they are eventually judged in court.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandro Vento
- Department of Medicine, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
- University Medical Center, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Francesca Cainelli
- Department of Medicine, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Alfredo Vallone
- Infectious Diseases Unit, G. Jazzolino Hospital, Vibo Valentia 89900, Italy
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesper Lykkegaard
- Research Unit of General Practice, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | | | - Jørgen Nexøe
- Research Unit of General Practice, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Editorial Board, Scandinavian Journal of Primary Health Care
| | - Elisabeth Assing Hvidt
- Research Unit of General Practice, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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