Medico-Legal Issues in Cardiology

Cardiology in Review 2013, 21: 222–228

7 Pages Posted: 7 Sep 2013

See all articles by Ryan Abbott

Ryan Abbott

University of Surrey School of Law; University of California, Los Angeles - David Geffen School of Medicine

Michael Cohen

Michael H. Cohen Law Group

Date Written: 2013

Abstract

The aim of this article is to educate physicians about the current litigation climate in cardiology and cardiac surgery, with a focus on the most frequently litigated areas of practice, including failure to diagnose and treat myocardial infarction, coronary artery bypass graft surgery, percutaneous coronary intervention, and the use of tissue plasminogen activator. Empirical research on cardiology malpractice is presented, along with a sampling of up-to-date cases designed to illustrate common issues and important themes. The principles for reducing legal liability are also discussed, including the informed consent process, spoliation of records, and the role of documentation. Finally, practical recommendations are provided for cardiologists and cardiac surgeons to limit their legal liability.

Keywords: malpractice liability, informed consent, spoliation of records, tissue plasminogen activator, bypass surgery

JEL Classification: I00, K13, K32

Suggested Citation

Abbott, Ryan Benjamin and Cohen, Michael, Medico-Legal Issues in Cardiology (2013). Cardiology in Review 2013, 21: 222–228, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2321765

Ryan Benjamin Abbott (Contact Author)

University of Surrey School of Law ( email )

Guildford
Guildford, Surrey GU2 5XH
United Kingdom

University of California, Los Angeles - David Geffen School of Medicine ( email )

1000 Veteran Avenue, Box 956939
Los Angeles, CA 90095-6939
United States

Michael Cohen

Michael H. Cohen Law Group

468 N Camden Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
United States

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