The primary objective of the Washington University School of Medicine Risk Management Program is to promote the delivery of safe, high quality patient care within reasonable and available resources, using a coordinated network of risk identification, careful evaluation and prudent resolution of actual and potential claims.

Ultimately, the Risk Management Program seeks to minimize financial loss and preserve the financial assets of Washington University School of Medicine through efforts which lessen the frequency and severity of medical malpractice claims.

Specifically, the program’s objectives can be defined under the following categories:

Risk Identification

  • To facilitate a comprehensive and timely incident reporting network and claims tracking system;

Risk Analysis

  • To investigate and analyze information which is obtained from risk identification systems;
  • To analyze actual and potential risks for trends or patterns;

Loss Control

  • To administer all claims, under the direction of Washington University’s General Counsel’s Office;
  • To protect the best interests of Washington University School of Medicine and its insureds in all aspects of claims management, trial preparation and settlement negotiations;

Loss Prevention

  • To develop effective policies, guidelines and system revisions as needed to help reduce risk of patient injury and liability exposure;
  • To develop policies and procedures to ensure compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements;
  • To promote and enhance the effectiveness of the credentialing system in order to ensure the highest quality medical staff:
  • To promote and provide ongoing education for all Washington University employees regarding the purpose and goals of the risk management program as well as effective strategies and techniques to reduce risk;

Risk Financing

  • To administer the medical professional liability insurance program for Washington University School of Medicine and its insured staff.