Retrospective Assessment of the Clinical Negligence Claim Cases Filed in Alborz Province from 2010-2017

Parnian Shamsi; Nastaran Parviz; Zahra Momeni

doi:10.18502/ssu.v32i9.17093

Parnian Shamsi Student Research Committee, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
Nastaran Parviz Student Research Committee, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
Zahra Momeni Department of Community Oral Health, Faculty of Dentistry, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/ssu.v32i9.17093

Keywords: Forensic Medicine, Forensic Dentistry, Jurisprudence.

Abstract

Introduction: Dental complaints are increasing globally, similar to medical complaints. This study assessed clinical negligence claim cases filed in Alborz province to identify common complications and problems.

Methods: This cross-sectional study examined all existing files related to dental complaints in the medical system organization of Alborz Province between 2010 and 2017.The data were analyzed using SPSS-16 statistical software and a Chi-square test was used to determine the relationships. A significance level of 0.05 was considered.

Results: Information from 147 cases was examined. The highest number of complaints came from dentists in the 35 to 45 age group. The complaints were higher for male dentists compared to female dentists (p<0.001). Among the cases, 75.5% were against general dentists with the most common complaint related to root canal treatment at 34%. Surgeons had the highest number of complaints at 38.9%, while periodontics specialists had the lowest at 2.8%. The main motivation for complaints was related to the doctor's conduct at 54.2%, followed by financial damage at 44.3%.

Conclusion: Cases leading to a negligence verdict still make up a significant portion of complaints. Dentists who ware knowledgeable about the profession's legal and ethical issues can prevent disputes and complaints. Therefore, reviewing how students are taught about clinical, legal, and moral issues can be effective in preventing complaints.