Doctor Errors

Most New Yorkers have probably heard the term “informed consent,” but they may not be familiar with what it means to their health care. According to the American Medical Association, informed consent means that patients must be given information about a recommended treatment, its benefits and its side effects so they can make an educated choice about their medical care. However, standard practices for informed consent vary among states, and there are competing interests which may leave patients at a disadvantage.

While the odds are low that a given doctor may have a checkered past, it is difficult for New York patients to find out. This is according to findings from Consumer Reports after obtaining a list of all California doctors on probation as of the later portion of 2015. There were 500 doctors on probation at the time, and the offenses ranged from inappropriate sexual conduct with patients to practicing while under the influence.

A New York resident who spends time in the hospital is likely to be treated by a hospitalist at some point. Although this specialty has only been around for approximately 20 years, the role of the hospitalist is prominent in patient care. This party typically acts much like a primary care physician in overseeing and coordinating the involvement of other specialists during a patient’s stay.

Cancer patients in New York might be surprised to learn that, since 1970, a doctor has been treating patients with antineoplastons, for which there is insufficient evidence to prove that they work. Despite being backed by actress Suzanne Somers and famous surgeon Dr. Oz, the Texas Medical Board has investigated the doctor, and he could lose his license for medical misconduct.