When you go into a hospital for treatment, you may be looking for any source of assurance you can find. It is easy to feel vulnerable when undergoing surgery or some other procedure. And your doctor’s demeanor could determine if your stay will be as comfortable as possible or a source of stress and worry. Most doctors understand that having a good bedside manner means a great deal to their patients. As such, they treat their patients, as well as other staff members, with understanding and respect.
Unfortunately, not all doctors behave civilly toward others while at the hospital or other health care environment. In fact, 77 percent of over 4,500 healthcare workers surveyed reported knowing of doctors engaging in disruptive behavior. Disruptive behavior can take many forms, such as insulting others, throwing objects, bullying and making threats. And these sorts of acts can undermine a culture of safety within a hospital’s community.
On the more positive side, it may be that the percentage of doctors behaving badly is comparatively small. A report published in the Annals of Internal Medicine determined that in any given healthcare organization, a third of patient complaints are lodged against 5 percent of physicians. Various other studies place the number of disruptive doctors at about 3 to 5 percent.
But such numbers are of no concern if you or someone you love is receiving treatment from a disruptive physician. Such doctors can create distractions and drama that can make it difficult for other staff members to concentrate on their jobs. And this can cause a much greater risk for mistakes during treatment or even in the surgical arena.
If you or a family member has been harmed in a hospital and you suspect that the doctor’s behavior was a root cause, an experienced medical malpractice attorney may be of service. By investigating your case, the attorney may be able to determine if the doctor’s actions were responsible for the injury you suffered. The attorney could also help you get compensation and file a lawsuit if appropriate.