Conclusion
Physicians have a right to work
with their patients, not for them. They have a right to practice
in an atmosphere that is safe, to be paid for their services, and to
have themselves and their staff respected, their schedules honored,
their professional ability valued, and their word trusted. When
those rights are violated or irretrievably compromised by the
patient’s actions or inactions, termination of the professional
relationship may be a viable option. This article has presented
some of the basic steps that should be a part of the termination
process. For help with patient- or practice-specific issues
involving termination, physicians should contact their attorney or the
risk management department of their medical malpractice insurance
company.
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