I first read this book in 2013 as a GP registrar, learning from unfortunate mistakes made by doctors, much to my dismay. However, reading this book again in 2016 (as a refresher) and now a practising GP, I have further appreciation for the relevance of the book, given how today’s society is fraught with medicolegal pitfalls and litigation.
The authors include GPs, lawyers, and a former head of the Claims and Legal Department of the Medical Protection Society. The book does what its synopsis states: ‘… identifies and explains the most common errors likely to occur … so that you won’t make them’. It discusses medical negligence and causes of error, and it details the investigation process surrounding a complaint and the legal representation and support that doctors can seek. However, the crux of the book consists of 40 clinical cases (all of which could likely present to a GP in surgery or out-of-hours). The book goes on to explain the medical error of each case supported by medicolegal advice, with useful take-home messages. The references supplied after each case facilitate further reading.
Reading this book made me debate the old adage that ‘common things are common’. In reality, doctors should expand their differential diagnoses to consider what could be the most serious, in order to eliminate anything more worrying, for example, Case 25 — patient died of pneumonia when initially diagnosed as viral. During my read, I became aware of certain guidelines requiring updating, for example, Case 20 — microscopic haematuria — updated with NICE guidance in 2015 (understandable given publication of this book was in 2013 and is yet to receive a revised edition).
There is potential negativity towards this book in that it could instil an element of disheartenment among GPs, with the various complaints and litigation described. This may lead GPs to practise more defensively and perhaps become disillusioned with their vocation.
Ultimately, I feel this book provides an opportunity to learn from the errors, making ourselves safer doctors, and, in turn, ensuring patient safety.
- © British Journal of General Practice 2017