[Medical error--Slovenian standpoints and experience]

Different terms are used for adverse events which occur during the treatment with permanent consequences for a patient, in order to avoid calling a procedure not in concord with the algorithm a medical error. From the viewpoint of a patient suffering lasting consequences or even dying because of malpractice, it is totally irrelevant what these procedures are called. Until death occurs, lasting consequences may be alleviated through indemnity insurance related to civil liability of physicians for malpractice. Prompt admission that medical error has occurred, candid discussion with the patient and his family and indemnity payment are essential for maintenance of trust in the relation patient-physician. Special attention should be paid to informed consent. Only when the details of a particular treatment or surgical procedure have been explained to a patient, timely and in adequate extent, can the patient freely and independently decide upon its acceptance. Physician is the one who should prove that the procedure has been properly performed.