Medicolegal considerations in the diagnosis of breast cancer

From the standpoint of the obstetrician, gynecologist, failure to diagnose breast cancer is a significant medicolegal issue in terms of the number of claims initiated and the indemnity awards paid to successful plaintiffs. The incidence of breast cancer may continue to increase. Without quality care and good risk management on the part or health care providers, claims for failure to diagnose cancer in a timely manner will also increase. The challenge for the health care provider is to formulate a plan that promotes early detection and treatment while allowing for independent clinical judgment. Ideally, the plan should be written and followed for every patient in whom complaints of a breast mass have been documented. It is incumbent upon the physician and office staff to create an atmosphere in which patient complaints are not minimized, the limitations of mammography are recognized. follow-up procedures are in place and strictly followed, and a definitive diagnosis within 4 to 6 weeks of the initial presentation is the ultimate goal. Following these suggestions will improve the quality of health care for the patient and significantly decrease the likelihood of litigation alleging a failure to diagnose breast cancer. In the event breast cancer is diagnosed and a lawsuit is brought for failure to diagnose in a timely fashion, the best defense a physician can have is to be able to demonstrate that the patient's complaints were taken seriously, a consistent treatment plan was followed and documented, and the patient received appropriate care.