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Will You Need to Call CAP Cares This Year?
Your first question may be, "What is CAP Cares?" CAP Cares is the Cooperative of American Physicians' early intervention program that provides support to members in the immediate aftermath of an adverse outcome. CAP defines an "adverse outcome" as an outcome that was a known risk of medical care (i.e., a complication or a medical error).
The goal of the CAP Cares Program is to support the physician-patient relationship through the adverse outcome and assist the physician in the follow-up necessary to restore the patient. Experienced risk management staff with training to help the physician through a crisis are available to all CAP members 24-hours a day, seven-days-a-week.
In 2011, the CAP Cares professionals managed more than 130 calls from CAP members specifically addressing an adverse outcome. During these interactions, physicians were given recommendations on how to communicate with the affected patient and family members. CAP believes effective communication from the time the event occurred and throughout the follow-up process helps reduce the likelihood of a claim.
A new CAP Cares brochure, Supporting the Physician-Patient Relationship During an Adverse Outcome, was designed to prepare physicians for their initial discussion with a CAP Cares professional if, or when, an adverse outcome occurs. We suggest you download and read this brochure. Keep it in a convenient location for reference at any time. Click here to download.
CAP extends a wish for a Happy New Year to each member. However, should you need CAP Cares assistance in 2012, we will be here for you - 24-hours a day, seven-days-a-week!
The CAP Hotline may be reached at any time by calling 1-800-252-0555.
Authored by
The CAP Cares Team
Risk Management & Patient Safety
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Published comments of this information should not be considered legal advice applicable to a specific situation. Legal guidance for individual matters should be obtained from a retained attorney. |
