Medicolegal issues regarding mohs micrographic surgery

Abstract

Almost two thirds of US physicians can expect to be sued at least once during their career. The key, however, is not to wait until that time to start learning about medicolegal issues. A physician with preemptive knowledge about the legal system can incorporate such information into a Mohs practice, thereby enhancing patient safety while minimizing malpractice risk. Physicians armed with legal information can also be better prepared to properly respond to adverse events, such as those that can occur in Mohs surgery. Not all adverse events, however, need to proceed to litigation. When an adverse event occurs, there is much a physician can do to enhance patient well-being, restore trust, and hopefully keep the issue out of court. Should the matter in fact proceed to a lawsuit, a physician with legal knowledge can be in a better position to prevent typical missteps and mount an aggressive defense.