Frequency and Causes of Medical Malpractice in the Field of Gynecology and Midwifery Referred to the General Directorate of Legal Medicine in Qom Province, Iran

Today, despite the efforts of the medical community, health care staff and the advancement of medical technology, the rate of patient dissatisfaction and complaints is increasing. For this reason, this study was conducted to determine the frequency, causes and factors of medical malpractice in the field of gynecology and obstetrics referred to the General Directorate of Forensic Medicine in Qom province during the years 1391-1391.

This study was a descriptive and cross-sectional study. All complaint files in the field of gynecology and midwifery in the General Directorate of Forensic Medicine of Qom Province from 1391 to 1396 were reviewed. The data collection tool was a checklist that was prepared and completed by the researcher using the files. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 24.

The number of complaints in the field of gynecology and midwifery was 93, of which 62 were acquitted and 31 were convicted. The frequency of medical malpractice was 26.7% by midwives, 44.4% by gynecologists and 28.9% by other medical staff. Causes and types of negligence were high frequency (51.5%), carelessness (33.3%) and lack of skills (15.2%), respectively.

Considering the increase in complaints of medical malpractice in the field of obstetrics and gynecology, in order to increase the job security of medical staff and in the same direction increase the safety of patients and clients, gynecologists and midwives are required to take measures according to scientific standards and protocols. Also, increase clinical skills and thus reduce the types of medical malpractice, to maintain the health of mothers and infants.