For those who truly are physicians, is there a difference if they identify themselves as physicians or not?
Is there liability for someone who claims to be a physician but is not?
Thanks for the answers thus far. I would think Yahoo's disclaimer would protect Yahoo but not necessarily a physician. For those saying that few physicians answer, they should check the Medicine subsection...it is extremely common to see answers from those claiming to be physicians.
I don't feel qualified to pick the best answer. I have one I think is correct but I'd rather just join in the voting.
Michael G
I doubt it, they aren't treating you over the internet. All they are allowed to do is offer advice & it's up to the Y!A user to decide whether they follow it.
AHHMPHURREEL
Not on a public type q&a forum. You can be anyone ya want on here, and it's perfectly legal. There is abloslutely no liability, because you have not entered this physician's practice, or his private page designed for online prognosis. Seeing as how you can be anyone on here, I think today I will be Dr. Suess. ( It gives me a reason to use made up words when I feel like it.) Good luck!
Mutt
No, they don't. There is a link to the Y!A's disclaimer at the bottom of the screen. Basically, it says that none of the information on here should be taken as legal, financial, or medical advise.
Concerned from the Right
I am not a doctor, I am a first year law student. My belief is that anytime a doctor/lawyer or any license professional is giving professional advise it opens them up to exposure.
Tyler
if you claim to be a physician, but your not then yes, there is liability there.
however on a website like this, a "questioner" needs to be aware that he is asking the general public, not qualified personnel, so he needs to take appropriate actions and precautions.
but for example in the health section, a rarely, or never see any one claiming to be a physician.... once in a while a nurse might pop up, but no matter how articulate their answer is, or who they say they are, i'm going to evaluate how realistic/correct, i deem the answer to be.
Cherokee
There would be no liability because people are just offering advice, which one does not have to take.
Nightrider
I doubt if physicians really are active here at the Y
Those people who give advise here are either drawn from their own experience, or someone they know of and what they did so they mean well and give and share their ideas. That does not mean, the answers here are to be etched in stone.
One has to use his/her best judgement in taking that advise and..... I see most people do take it cautiously. After all, it is one's own health and it is not professional advise. Most people who ask here, have formed an answer in their mind already even before they ask.They just want a confirmation of their answer from the general public.
The questions of liability does not enter this picture. The answer forum is a pastime for many and they just like to participate and share their knowledge. Let's leave it at that.
Orignal From: Tips: Do physicians giving advice on Y!A take on malpractice liability?
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