Maryland's surgical workforce-2007: an in-depth analysis and implications for the future.

Background: Critical decisions about the future supply of surgeons must be based on an accurate assessment of current surgical manpower. This study examined the demographics and clinical activities of seven surgical subspecialty groups on the frontlines of health care in Maryland. These data are compared with those customarily quoted in the literature, and the implications of these findings are discussed.

Violations of behavioral practices revealed in closed claims reviews.

Objective: Closed claims against general surgeons were reviewed, seeking insights into the effects of surgeons' deficient behavioral practices on outcomes. Research and educational strategies based on findings may reduce errors and improve care.

Summary Background Data: Adverse events occur in 2.

The American College of Surgeons' closed claims study: new insights for improving care.

Background: All physicians must be vigilant in the pursuit of safe care for patients. While problems in care are identified, education that provides an understanding of these problems and guidelines for improvement can enhance patient safety. Our objective was to determine problematic aspects of surgical care, including care provided by surgeons before, during, after, and instead of surgery, that negatively affect patient safety.

Postpartum hospitalization of psychotic parents with their infant: a case study.

Background: Parents with mental illness are at risk for exacerbations during the postpartum period. The management of family members needing concurrent psychiatric hospitalization is unclear. This article describes the advantages and difficulties of a family hospitalization, focusing on the splitting processes in the staff and the use of "couple ego functions'.