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High refractive surgery volume a risk factor for lawsuits
High-volume refractive surgeons are more likely to face malpractice lawsuits than their lower-volume colleagues, according to a study in an upcoming issue of Ophthalmology.
Richard Abbott, MD, retrospectively reviewed physician demographics and practice pattern data of 100 consecutive LASIK and photorefractive keratectomy claims and lawsuits reported to the Ophthalmic Mutual Insurance Company and compared that information with demographics and practice patterns of all refractive surgeons over a period of several years.
Among the risk factors identified for increased chances of malpractice claims or lawsuits were high patient volume, previous claims or lawsuits, male sex of the surgeon, advertising, time spent with patients and comanagement with optometrists.
“The results of this study should help improve the overall quality of care provided to refractive surgery patients and alter the image this procedure has acquired within the legal community and the public,” Dr. Abbott said.