Question

Describe the legal and ethical consequences for improper documentation in medical records and who is affected by each consequence

Answer 1

Improper documentation of medical records can have severe consequences both in legal and ethical sense. It can result in incorrect treatment decisions, expensive, painful or unnecessary diagnostic studies, and unclear communication between consultants and physicians which can result in a lack of follow through with evaluation and treatment plans. Improper documentation can lead to state licensing board suspension or revoke. These consequences mostly affect the patients.