As a medical professional, you stand a decent chance of being involved in litigation, either directly or by peripheral involvement. Whether you, personally, have been named as a defendant or you were present during a situation deemed a violation of the standards of practice, being called to deposition can be a disturbing experience.

A majority of individuals, from most professions, do not have a clear understanding regarding Standard of Care. The first thing to understand is that standard of care is a legal term. It is not a medical term.

I have never encountered anyone that actually enjoyed taking call, especially at night. Although this dedicated time probably represents a majority of the effort we put forth as maternity care providers. When on call, healthcare providers are available for consultation, evaluation, reassurance, and a plan of care, either in-person or by phone.

Incomplete documentation of critical events is a standard error and interferes with effective representation for defense attorneys. OB and Neonatal providers encounter recurring situations that account for fetal/neonatal injuries.

Summer is here, and along with climate change, the weather is hotter and drier for much of the world. Wildfires have become more common even in places that have typically not experienced them to any significant degree. If you are pregnant, wildfire smoke from a wildland fire, or even a campfire, could have an impact on pregnancy.

Standard of care is a legal term, not a medical or midwifery one. When referring to the quality of care provided in a situation of healthcare, standard of care is the term of lawyers, not healthcare providers.