Peer review organizations. Practical steps in dealing with them

Peer review organizations exist to maintain high standards of medical care, not to intimidate physicians or hamper their style of practice. The author traces the history of these organizations and stresses their decentralized nature. Physicians are instructed on the optimal response to a peer review notice. In most cases, an adequate answer resolves the query. For physicians who are required to meet with the organization for further inquiry, practical advice is given regarding measures that they can take in their own defense. These include furnishing x-ray film and other evidence documenting their choice of care; bringing in additional health care personnel responsible for recording notes; and the right to legal counsel or a representative of their choice throughout the proceedings.