HealthLaw HotSpot: Patient Extortion: The Trend of Threatening Physicians for Personal Gain

Host Ericka Adler is joined by Roetzel litigation shareholder
Michael Scotti to explore a growing and deeply concerning issue in
healthcare: patients using threats, such as negative online
reviews, malpractice claims, or regulatory complaints, as leverage
to demand refunds or free services. Together, they unpack the legal
and ethical complexities of responding to extortion attempts
involving online platforms like Google and Facebook, understanding
the difference between defamation and disparagement and how to
respond to both. They also discuss navigating HIPAA restrictions
when addressing public criticism, knowing when to involve your
malpractice carrier or legal counsel, structuring settlements with
non-disparagement clauses and patient termination protocols, and
handling threats of complaints to state licensing boards. Whether
you're a physician, dentist, or healthcare administrator, this
episode offers practical legal strategies to protect your
reputation, your license, and your peace of mind in an increasingly
digital world. Find all of our network podcasts on your favorite
podcast platforms and be sure to subscribe and like us. Learn more
at www.healthcarenowradio.com/listen