Numerous studies have attempted to understand the effects of communication failures on medical malpractice claims in healthcare settings. A study conducted by Vanderbilt University concluded that good communication with patients and family members may decrease the likelihood of patients suing their physicians.
They conclude that “risk is predicted by the practitioner’s inability to communicate effectively and establish and maintain rapport with patients, especially in the face of an adverse event.” [5]
[5] ASHRM Monograph: Part 3 of 3. Disclosure: What works now & what can work even better. American Society for Healthcare Risk Management Web site. http://www.ashrm.org/pubs/files/white_papers/Disclosure-of-Unanticipated-Events-in-2013_Prologue.pdf. Accessed October 19, 2015.