Well, I have to say that over a lot of years our practice has on quite a number of occasions fired patients for a variety of reasons and with no repercussions. We don't get into long winded explanations ("Never wrestle with pigs; you only get dirty and the pig enjoys it.") We just send a registered letter that says roughly "We regret that we will be unable to provide further care beyond (30 days hence). We will be available for emergency care during that time. Please arrange to have your records transferred, etc." I have never been sorry that I did so when necessary.
We want to do the best job we can. We can't do that when we dread to see someone on the schedule, are chronically angry with them, or feel manipulated. Medical care is a relationship. Sometimes it just doesn't work. Best to be upfront about it and move on.
And, if your big concern is legal repercussions, then call the risk manager at your malpractice carrier and have them help you through this. I doubt you are at more legal risk from firing this patient than in keeping them.
Last edited by AKbeth; 04/29/2010 4:03 AM.
