For doctors, a malpractice lawsuit is personal

Paul Levy eloquently writes about what a physician goes through when named in a malpractice suit. What is “just business” for lawyers is intensely personal for physicians, thus forming the basis of the eternal battle between the professions:

Doctors devote their lives to alleviating human suffering caused by disease. They spend decades in training. They disrupt their family lives to be available to help others. For them, this is a calling. It is not part of their life. It is their life. They measure their worth to their community and ultimately value themselves by their unfettered dedication to this cause — and by society’s appreciation for it.

A malpractice claims shatters this construct. In the doctor’s mind and heart, it says, “Society does not value all that I have devoted my life to. They do not believe I am worthy of trust that is granted to me, notwithstanding the effort, energy, and dedication I have given to this calling.” And perhaps he even says, “Maybe I am not really as good a doctor or as good a person as I think I am.”

For someone who has spent his or her whole life basking in the gratitude and admiration of individuals and society, this can be a devastating experience. Even when the verdict is issued, clearing the doctor of all wrong, it can leave a terrible scar.

Prev
Next