Ophthalmic malpractice and physician gender: a claims data analysis (an American Ophthalmological Society thesis)

To analyze and compare malpractice claims rates between male and female ophthalmologists and test the hypothesis that claims rates are equal between the two sexes.

A retrospective, cohort study review was made of all claims reported to the Ophthalmic Mutual Insurance Company from January 1990 through December 2008 in which an expense (including indemnity and/or legal defense costs) was paid or reserved. A total of 2,251 claims were examined. Frequency (claims per physician) and severity (indemnity payment, associated expenses and reserves per claim) were analyzed for both male and female ophthalmologists. Frequency and severity data were further stratified by allegation, type of treatment, and injury severity category.

Men were sued 54% more often than females over the period studied (P<.001). Women had lower claims frequencies across all allegations and within the treatment areas of cataract, cornea, and retinal procedures (P<.7). Men had more claims associated with severe injury, including permanent major injury and death (P<.001). The average amount paid in indemnity and expenses was 7% higher for claims against women ($115,303 compared to $107,354 against men).

Nearly 20 years of closed claim data reveal male ophthalmologists are significantly more likely than women to have reported malpractice activity. Claims against men were associated with more severe injury to the patient but were slightly less costly overall compared to claims against women. Further study is necessary to understand the reasons underlying gender disparities in malpractice claims rates and whether the observed past differences are predictive of future results.