Medical malpractice claims in obstetrics and gynaecology: comparisons between the United States and Britain

Abstract

Obstetricians and gynaecologists have been particularly affected by the increase in the cost and number of medical malpractice claims in Britain. US obstetricians and gynaecologists have experienced a disproportionately higher rate of claim than other practitioners in that country. This article reviews the US experience of obstetrics and gynaecology malpractice claims and questions the validity of showing comparisons between the US and UK. However, even if British malpractice claims do not reach the level of American claims, the effects of claims on the National Health Service, recruitment to obstetrics and gynaecology, and clinical practice are significant.