The AMA (American Medical Association) code of ethics states that physicians should adopt a policy whereby patients have the right to request a chaperone during physical examinations. Some states have adopted a legal policy for physicians to provide a chaperone for intimate examinations. The Texas State Medical Board states that: “A policy that patients are … Continue reading
Medical billing errors are very common. Estimates put the rate of medical billing error somewhere between 30-80%. Unfortunately, identifying mistakes on a bill and successfully contesting them can be a complicated process. While billing errors are generally not the basis for a lawsuit, there are many steps consumers can take themselves in this situation. So, … Continue reading
When natural disaster strikes, seniors and other vulnerable citizens may not get the considerations they need and deserve. The news of deaths at a nursing home in Hollywood, Florida in the wake or Hurricane Irma are a tragic example of what can happen. Our hearts go out to all the victims and their loved ones. … Continue reading
Dementia and other health changes among the elderly are confusing, both for the patient, and also for their family and friends. Caring for aging loved ones can be demanding and can take a toll on one’s health and well-being. As our senior population continues to grow, it is important to consider how to manage the difficult … Continue reading
As some states have approved dispensing and use of Medical Marijuana, nursing homes in those state have been working to resolve how this fits with their protocols and resident needs. A recent article in the New York Times discusses this issue and states, "as older people come to represent an emerging frontier in the use … Continue reading
An AARP Journal article reflects that: "There is no demographic sector more active in travel than those over 50. Older Americans place travel at the very top of their list of postcareer aspirations." With more baby boomers traveling, some will inevitalby have Medicare insurance, and some of those will have travel plans interrupted by health situations … Continue reading
June 5th is National Cancer Survivors Day is "a celebration for those who have survived, an inspiration for those recently diagnosed, a gathering of support for families, and an outreach to the community", a day to honor those individuals and families who have traveled this journey. Started in 1988, this day focuses on life after cancer … Continue reading
Is a Bad Outcome from a Medical Procedure a Medical Malpractice? The short answer is that a bad outcome from treatment might be the result of malpractice. However, it also might not be. A bad outcome alone is not evidence of malpractice. Medical malpractice occurs when the care provided by the medical provider fell below … Continue reading
Patients, and their appropriately authorized representatives, should have ability to access medical records (in all but a few instances). One of the greatest barriers people calling our office for a case consultation face is obtaining the records necessary for legal review. These same barriers prevent patients, guardians and others from procuring their records so they … Continue reading
We have addressed the topic of requesting medical records before, but we hear often from people who have difficulty getting copies of records – even their own – so we feel it bears repeating. Continue reading
