Managing and Addressing Disruptive Physician Conduct

The disruptive physician may create myriad issues that negatively impact the ability of individuals and entities to deliver quality healthcare and the public perception of the organization and its providers. These stakeholders whose duty is to provide optimal care may range from health systems, post-acute care facilities, physician practices, and other providers that rely upon physicians in the delivery of healthcare. The disruptive physician may negatively impact the relationships between the organization, its providers, staff, and their patients which inhibits communication and interaction in the delivery of appropriate and timely services. Also, it may result in adverse medical staff, accreditation, or licensure issues due to such disruptive conduct.

Mr. Souter will discuss what standards should be in place to address the disruptive physician. He will analyze the impact such physicians have on all aspects of the healthcare delivery process and explore the legal and business consequences for those failing to adequately address the situation. The presentation identifies what actions may be legally taken against the disruptive physician, the rights, duties, and obligations under the Health Care Quality Improvement Act, and possible liability traps in carrying out such actions. Finally, it discusses best practices that should be considered when encountering the disruptive physician. This program will benefit those charged with overseeing and advising healthcare operations to be prepared for and act swiftly to reduce the negative impact such improper behavior may cause while still respecting the rights of the physician.

Learning Objectives:

1. Discuss what constitutes disruptive behavior and what administrative and legal authorities are required to be in place to proactively address the situation

2. Identify the repercussions and potential liability that may result from failing to act to properly address disruptive behavior

3. Examine what actions may be taken to address disruptive behavior in a legally compliant way to ensure a proper healthcare delivery environment

4. Implement policies, procedures, and other action items recommended to be included as part of an overall risk management strategy