Muted in Medicine

E16: How to Avoid a Lawsuit—and What to Do If You’re in One(w/Dr. Stephen Cohen)

Saba Fatima MD Season 1 Episode 16

In this conversation, Dr. Stephen Cohen shares his insights with Dr, Saba Fatima on the challenges and realities of litigation in medicine, particularly for physicians. He discusses the common reasons for lawsuits, and how to navigate the complexities of communication and documentation. Dr. Cohen emphasizes the significance of recognizing complications, the role of expert witnesses, and the emotional toll of depositions. He offers practical advice for physicians facing litigation, highlighting the importance of remaining calm and focused on the facts, and the dos and dont's of preparing for a deposition. Ultimately, he reassures listeners that being sued does not define their capabilities as doctors and encourages them to seek support during difficult times.

Dr. Stephen Cohen, MD, MBA, is a board-certified surgeon specializing in colorectal advancements, dedicated to ensuring the best outcomes for his patients. As a medical educator, he trains the next generation of surgeons, and as a medical-legal expert, he provides clear, unbiased reviews for both plaintiff and defense attorneys, clarifying medical facts, causation, and standards of care.

With three decades of experience, Dr. Cohen combines hands-on surgical expertise with the ability to simplify complex medical issues—whether for patients, students, attorneys, or juries.
Beyond his professional commitments, Dr. Cohen is dedicated to a healthy lifestyle. He has completed two Ironman triathlons and over ten marathons, applying the same discipline and dedication to professional pursuits.

Chapters
00:00
Introduction to Medical Malpractice
04:04
Understanding the Reality of Lawsuits in Medicine
07:17
Common Reasons for Medical Litigation
10:01
The Importance of Documentation and Communication
13:08
Recognizing Complications and Patient Communication
15:59
Navigating the Legal Process After a Lawsuit
19:10
Preparing for Depositions: Do's and Don'ts
22:03
Expert Witnesses and Standard of Care
25:09
The Role of Colleagues in Legal Cases
26:55
Navigating Depositions: Expert Insights
32:36
Understanding the Legal Process: From Lawsuit to Trial
37:55
The Emotional Toll of Litigation: Coping Strategies
43:14
Communication with Patients: What to Avoid
45:45
Words of Wisdom: Encouragement for Sued Physicians

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

© 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com