Historically, the courts have looked for a formal physician-patient relationship as the basis for risk exposure. Court decisions have given increased consideration to factors such as whether:

• A contractual agreement created a relationship,
• Actions by your employees implied your willingness to establish a physician-patient relationship, or
• Treatment or diagnostic decisions by your consulting colleague indicate substantial reliance on your advice.

If your curbside consult takes on any of these characteristics, follow up on the patient's care as you would for a formal consult.

Additional Resources

1. Consultation Guidelines for Primary Care Providers [PDF]
2. Curbside Consultations [PDF]