The study also found that payment for claims actually brought had a very low rate of payment. The study analyzed 278,220 medical malpractice claims made from the years 1985 to 2012. Only 761 (0.027 percent) of these claims were related to upper endoscopy.
The researchers narrowed their focus to 2002 to 2010 for malpractice claims made in regards to delayed cancer diagnosis. Of 19 claims involved patients without alarm symptoms, only four (21.1 percent) were paid, according to the report.
The researchers concluded that endoscopy screening in low-risk patients with GERD is not necessary for avoiding malpractice suits, according to the report.
More articles on gastroenterology:
Americans get too many colonoscopies, study says
5 GI/endoscopy devices receive FDA 510(k) clearance in September
Gastroenterologists & ACOs: In or out?
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.