Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Health
Storm Newton

What is ‘defensive medicine’? The method some GPs are using to avoid patient complaints

Nearly eight out of ten general practitioners are admitting to altering their medical practices and deviating from standard care to avoid patient complaints or regulatory referrals, a new survey reveals.

Family doctors reported a greater inclination to prescribe certain medications, refer patients, or dedicate more time to writing notes, all to prevent potential backlash.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.