Risk Management

Patient and system issues in infectious keratitis cases

Most of the criticisms in recent infectious keratitis claims focused on a physician’s diagnostic and treatment decisions, including how frequently to follow up with the patient and when to obtain cultures or refer to a corneal specialist. Our investigation showed that several plaintiffs had not complied with appointments, use of medications, and especially instructions to stop contact lens use. The noncompliance helped secure dismissals and defense verdicts.

System issues played a key role in a few cases. Read more and learn risk management strategies on pg 7 of the 2020 Digest Vol 30 No 1.