The risk manager's contribution to patient safety and risk management in the ambulatory or physician practice setting

The landscape of healthcare delivery in the United States is quickly changing. Hospitals and health systems are acquiring physician practices at a rapid rate. Healthcare risk management professionals may be tasked with additional responsibilities associated with physician practices, some of which may not have necessary policies or processes in place to reduce risk. Risk management professionals from the hospital setting may be required to provide additional guidance to office practices. This article describes basic risk management considerations for those who have responsibilities in these settings.