Prevention of hospital liability for granting privileges to unqualified physicians.

The rise in medical malpractice claims has resulted in the widespread development of risk management programs. These programs have relevance to the practice of gastrointestinal endoscopy with regard to identifying and addressing factors that place the gastrointestinal endoscopist and his or her patient at risk for procedure-related complications and adverse outcomes. Illustrative clinical examples and commentary regarding gastrointestinal endoscopy as it relates to the tort of professional liability are provided. Recommendations regarding gastrointestinal risk management are formulated.