Characteristics of Medical Malpractice Litigation in Thailand: Cases from Government-Run Hospitals

Abstract

© 2018 Policy Studies Organization Current malpractice policy debates have been contentious in Thailand for years. There is a lack of a national database for malpractice claims to provide comprehensive information to policymakers; therefore, the development of policy related to malpractice has been prolonged. This study uses the best available data to create a database and describe characteristics of medical malpractice cases in Thailand during 1996–2016. Like many countries, cases related to pregnancy and childbirth are the most common cause of malpractice lawsuits. Unlike other countries, general practice physicians in Thailand are sued the most. The proportions of wrongful death claims were higher in community hospitals, among physician interns, and on weekends. Moreover, a no-fault provision appears to help settling claims out of court. To develop a success policy, Thailand needs to establish a national database for malpractice claims. Furthermore, expanding the no-fault provision to all types of health insurance could be a desirable policy.