Page 61 - 2022 Risk Basics - Systems

SVMIC Risk Basics: Systems

guidelines, as patients are usually under the care of multiple medical

providers. Liability experts anticipate even further increases in the
number of drug-related claims as physicians see more patients and

patients move between insurance plans and providers. The best way
to protect the practice is to develop written procedures to cover the

acquisition, maintenance, storage, dispensing, and administration of
medications, and to ensure conformity with all applicable federal and

state regulations. The Physician Office Resource Manual at www.svmic.
com outlines additional details to consider when developing these

procedures.

High-Risk Medications

Having a reliable and consistent system for newly prescribed or high-
risk medications is crucial. When first initiating high-risk medication

therapy, the patient should be educated to understand the indications
for the medication, the potential risks and benefits, potential side effects

and how to manage them, the importance of monitoring, if applicable,
dietary and alcohol interactions, and medication and herbal supplement

interactions. When appropriate, include a family member or friend in
this discussion. It is preferable to use educational tools, such as written

materials and/or videos, to reinforce the face-to-face counseling by
the physician or nurse. Educational materials should be available for

immediate printing to supplement your discussion and documentation.
Many EHRs have a pre-programmed default to prompt discussion and

print materials. Monitoring and follow-up appointments for a patient
on chronic medications should be outlined to meet the patient’s

expectations. Finally, it is important that these educational efforts, along
with the patient’s understanding of the vital role they play in his or her

therapy, are documented in the medical record.

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