Which item is NOT listed as a reason for malpractice lawsuits?

• A. Referrals
• B. Failure to diagnose
• C. Inadequate exam or treatment
• D. Advanced imaging protocols

Answer: (D)

Malpractice claims usually stem from care that fails to meet the standard of practice in a way that harms the patient, with the most common bases being missing or delaying a diagnosis, performing an inadequate exam or treatment, or failing to refer appropriately. Advanced imaging protocols describe how imaging is performed, which is part of the diagnostic process, but by itself it isn’t a standalone, commonly cited category for malpractice. A claim would focus on whether the imaging decision, its timing, interpretation, or follow-up met the standard of care. So advanced imaging protocols aren’t typically listed as a primary reason, whereas referrals, failure to diagnose, and inadequate exam or treatment are.