Risk Management in Obstetrics and Gynecology

Abstract

Advances in technology and clinical practice increase the chance of medical errors. The combination
of increased expectations and increased potential for error can be disastrous for obstetricians and gynecologists. In many countries, pregnancy and birth related claims top the list in compensatory expense. It is not surprising that malpractice losses have driven many physicians from the practice of obstetrics and gynecology. Therefore, risk management has become an integral part of the practice of obstetrics and gynecology. The identification and management of risk contributes to evidence-based clinical practice and produces the best outcome for the patient. A risk may affect the patient, the staff or the corporate organization resulting in harm to the health of the patients or staff, damage to the reputations of staff or the organization, and may have financial consequences. This article outlines the principles of risk management together with some examples from high risk areas of obstetric and gynecological practice.