The ten-year malpractice experience of a large urban EMS system

Ann Emerg Med. 1985 Oct;14(10):982-5. doi: 10.1016/s0196-0644(85)80243-2.

Abstract

Malpractice is a recognized and growing problem for physicians and hospitals, but it is difficult to ascertain the risk of malpractice in the prehospital arena. Dade County, Florida (greater Miami), with a population of 1.7 million, currently is served by 339 certified paramedics. During the decade of 1972 to 1982, Dade County Fire Rescue handled 265,060 incidents; 16 claims were filed with the Risk Management Division of Dade County. The claims were produced by 11 incidents, which yields a rate of one per 24,096 incidents. The two greatest problems identified were inadequate record keeping and "gray zone" patients who do not fit any particular protocol.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Diagnostic Errors
  • Emergency Medical Services*
  • Florida
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Malpractice / trends*
  • Medical Records
  • Risk
  • Urban Population