• Get advice early.

Potential claims can be prevented if we know about them early and can obtain legal advice or representation for you, if indicated.

• Do not call a patient's attorney or the patient after receiving legal papers.

Such conversations are discoverable in court and may be used against you. Our claims representative or defense counsel will contact the patient's attorney when appropriate.

• Do not alter the medical record.

It is against the law in most states and may affect your coverage with us, as well as your license to practice. Charting changes can be used against you in court. If you discover errors or omissions in the record after you receive notice of a claim, call us for advice.

• Do not discuss a potential claim or suit with other physicians.

If you must discuss ongoing patient care with co-treating physicians, do not discuss the medical-legal aspects of the case. Such discussions are not protected and are therefore discoverable by the opposing attorney.

• Do not cancel charges because of a threat of litigation.

Obtain advice about further billing from one of our professional claims representatives.

• Do not release original records or x-rays until you have obtained advice from your claims representative or defense attorney.