What are the 4 D's of negligence for physicians?

Answer 1

Duty: Duty exists when the physician-patient relationship has been established. The patient has sought the assistance of the physician, and the physician has knowingly undertaken to provide the needed medical service.

Dereliction: Dereliction, or failure to perform a duty, is the second element required. There must be proof that the physician somehow neglected the duty to the patient.

Direct cause: There must be proof that the harm to the patient was directly caused by the physician's actions or failure to act and that the harm would not otherwise have occurred.

Damages: The patient must prove that a loss or harm has resulted from the actions of the physician.

K. Jordan

East Orange, New Jersey

define the 4 D's of negligence for the physician