Law & Malpractice

Is it appropriate for health systems to conduct random drug and alcohol testing of doctors, as well as after adverse patient outcomes?

Medical practices must screen prospective providers to identify those excluded from federal healthcare programs.

When it comes to audits, "payers are sneaky and relentless, because they have everything to gain and nothing to lose," notes consultant Angela Miller.

Legal interpretations on corporate social-media policies are in flux. Here's what you need to know to keep your practice safe.

The physicians' oath not only predicts major federal statutes, but also reminds that a respectful team approach to healthcare is vital.

How does your practice handle it when a parent refuses to vaccinate his child in accordance with recommended medical guidelines?

So you think using a certified EHR makes your organization HIPAA secure? Think again. Careless users and mobile devices represent your greatest risk.

You've been breached - now what? Here's what to do in that first, all-important 24 hours.

Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements have dropped to levels resembling a healthcare takeover. Why takeover, if it costs the same to get somebody else to do it?

While the landscape of how healthcare fraud whistleblowers are perceived and rewarded is shifting, it is not a decision for to take lightly.

If legal barriers were eliminated in your state, would you recommend medical marijuana to patients?

When a malpractice claim moves forward, be prepared to guard your wealth.

Your practice may want to consider purchasing insurance to cover the costs of a potential HIPAA breach.

Recent high-profile lawsuits involving bloodborne pathogen exposures highlight the risk of complacency and the need for industry responsibility.

The OIG deems PODs to be inherently suspect under the Anti-Kickback Statute, so physicians should take note.

Physicians are struggling with the burden of EHR requirements. Concierge programs can provide time and income to lessen the headaches many practices face.

When considering HIPAA, physicians should include state law claims for inappropriate access to medical records.

This week we take a look at the basics of responding to a medical board complaint.

Here are some legal and ethical issues to consider before you own and operate a compounding pharmacy at your medical practice.

Rob Anthony of CMS provides some clarity to physicians and medical practices on the upcoming meaningful use audits.

Here's why physicians should set their alarms for August 1, 2013, for the beginning of disclosures under the Physician Payments Sunshine Act.

President Obama’s proposed 2014 federal budget includes changes that could affect many practices providing in-office ancillary services.

Attesting for meaningful use? There’s a 5 to 10 percent chance you’ll be audited before you see your first big check.

There's not always a direct correlation between an ICD-9 and ICD-10 code. So providers should take steps to mitigate risks with the conversion.

The mainstream media needs to give a voice to real experts in healthcare.