A Study of Psychiatric Accidents in Korea.

Korean J Leg Med. 1997 Oct;21(2):38-50. Korean.

Forensic Mental Hospital Ministry of Justice, Korea.

Followings are results from analyzing 263 responses out of 1,000 survey questionaires, which were mailed to Korean psychiatrists, for purpose to discover current status of psychiatric accidents in Korea, and to find appropriate solutions.1) More accidents were experienced by 30-40 years-old psychiatrists than any other age level. More experience in practice they had, more accidents were experienced.2) 74.5% of responding psychiatrists reported that they had experienced accidents. The rate has steadily increased.3) Quite a few accidents were involved with schizophrenic patients, who were between 20-30 years of age level4) 58% of reported accidents were suicides, which was the highest rate. In legal suit regarding malpractice, the highest rate of 47.9% were suicides, as well. It calls special attention to careful evaluation and treatment of suicidal patients.5) More accidents tended to be dealt in private rather than in legal. Accidents tended into legal suits asked for more compensation. 40.4% of accidents upset patient's family to take actions. It is suggested that Special Case Settlement Policy be established and Accident Dispute Intervention Committee be actively involved for efficient solutions against accidents.