Veterinarian Malpractice (Holding Vets Accountable for Professional Negligence)
As licensed professionals in California, veterinarians can be held liable for malpractice. It is a risk that needs to be considered along with the range of different considerations that need to be addressed—from the compensation structure to an office lease to making preparations for defending the business when something might go wrong. Within this article, our Bay Area business attorney for veterinarians highlights key points business owners should know about professional malpractice claims—and your options to protect your practice—in California.
What is Veterinary Malpractice?
Veterinary malpractice occurs when a veterinary professional fails to provide the standard of care expected in the treatment of an animal, leading to injury, worsening of a medical condition, or even death. Some of the most common examples of veterinary malpractice include misdiagnosis, incorrect treatment, rough handling of a pet, and negligence in surgical procedures.
All Veterinary Practices in California Need Adequate Insurance Coverage
The reality is that malpractice is a risk that business owners operating veterinary practices need to be prepared for. Even the best and most thorough of veterinarians cannot completely eliminate the risk of facing a malpractice claim. All veterinary practices in California should secure adequate insurance coverage to protect against malpractice claims and other risks. As explained by Veterinary Practice News, “veterinarians commonly purchase professional liability (malpractice) insurance to guard against the expense of defending against such claims.”
Steps to Take When Handling a Professional Liability Claim
Is your veterinary practice facing a professional malpractice claim in California? A proactive approach is a must. You do not want to run into problems—from a business perspective and/or a legal perspective. Here are four steps to take when facing a malpractice allegation:
- Notify Your insurer: As soon as a potential veterinary malpractice claim arises, promptly notify your insurance provider to activate your professional liability coverage. Prompt notification is often required by a malpractice policy.
- Gather information: The next step is to collect all relevant documentation related to the case, including medical records, treatment notes, and any correspondence with the pet owner. Detailed, organized information will help to build a defense.
- Watch for complaint: Beyond any malpractice claim, a veterinarian may face a complaint before the California Veterinary Medical Board. Be sure to watch for complaints and to respond to any allegations proactively.
- Develop a plan of action: Finally, veterinary practice owners should work closely with insurers and consult legal counsel to develop a strategic plan of action tailored to the malpractice claim.
Get Help from Our Bay Area Business Lawyer for Veterinarians Today
Lynnette Ariathurai is a solutions-focused advocate for business owners. If you have any specific questions or concerns about veterinarian malpractice protection, we are here as a legal resource. Contact us today for a confidential initial consultation. With an office in Fremont, our firm provides business services to veterinary practices throughout the Bay Area.