Medical prescription vs defensive medicine: Results of a questionnaire answered by members of the latina board of physicians, surgeons and dentists

“Defensive Medicine” is intended as health practitioners’ behaviour aimed at limiting any medical - legal disputes and in addition to limiting a doctor’s responsibilities; specifically, DM is implemented by prescribing diagnostically useless tests, or by avoiding procedures that are potentially beneficial for the patient, but burdened by risk. The final effect of this medical conduct is to nullify the efficiency of health care, as well as increase times and costs. Our Group asked doctors registered with the Professional Board of Latina to answer a questionnaire aimed at investigating the perception of this issue and their behaviour in this regard, both in terms of prescriptions and insurance coverage. The results show a general attitude of distrust towards a disputed doctor and a series of behaviours aimed at avoiding such situations; the doctors interviewed asked for increased protection and less pressure in order to better carry out their work.