Meaning of dm medical
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Summary
10 papers analyzed
These studies suggest that "DM" in a medical context can refer to either Defensive Medicine, which involves medical practices aimed at avoiding litigation, or Disease Management, which focuses on improving patient care and controlling costs.
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Understanding Defensive Medicine (DM) in Medical Practice
Definition and Origin of Defensive Medicine (DM)
Defensive Medicine (DM) is a practice where medical professionals perform certain procedures or avoid others primarily to protect themselves from potential litigation rather than to benefit the patient. This concept originated in the USA in the early 1970s and has since spread to other continents, including Europe . The term was first publicly mentioned by the General Counsel of the American Medical Association in 1974, who provocatively suggested that avoiding all medical actions might be the only way to prevent malpractice lawsuits.
Drivers and Implications of Defensive Medicine
Legal and Systemic Pressures
The primary driver of DM is the fear of litigation. Physicians often engage in redundant practices to avoid being sued for medical negligence or malpractice . This fear is exacerbated by external pressures such as stringent regulations, demands from patients, and a culture of zero-risk tolerance among medical professionals. In Jordan, for instance, the lack of agreeable medical malpractice laws and overwhelming patient pressure contribute significantly to the prevalence of DM .
Economic and Ethical Consequences
DM practices are not only ethically questionable but also economically burdensome. They lead to unnecessary medical actions that increase healthcare costs without improving patient outcomes . In Jordan, the economic strain is compounded by limited financial resources in the health sector, making the practice of DM particularly detrimental.
Defensive Medicine in Different Contexts
Primary Care Settings
In primary care, DM is often seen as unnecessary and meaningless actions driven by external demands rather than patient needs. General practitioners (GPs) in Denmark, for example, report that systemic pressures, patient demands, and a culture of infallibility force them to act defensively, which they believe undermines their professionalism.
Developing Countries
In developing countries like Jordan, DM is prevalent due to unfavorable legislation and public pressure. Physicians frequently order excessive diagnostic tests and prescribe medications to avoid legal repercussions, which they believe is driven by the lack of supportive legal frameworks and the influence of public and media opinion .
Conclusion
Defensive Medicine (DM) is a widespread practice driven by the fear of litigation and external pressures, leading to unnecessary medical actions that increase healthcare costs and pose ethical dilemmas. Addressing DM requires systemic changes, including better legal frameworks, patient-physician relationship improvements, and a focus on ethical medical practice. Understanding and mitigating the factors that drive DM can help improve healthcare outcomes and reduce unnecessary expenditures.
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