When looking at patient mortality rates, there is an interesting correlation between those rates and the physician’s age. Mortality rates tend to increase on a fairly consistent basis, as doctors get older.
For example, when looking at physicians who are under 40 years old, the mortality rate of their patients is 10.8%. For physicians between 40 and 49 years old, it is 11.1%. For those between 50 and 59, the mortality rate goes up slightly to 11.3%. Finally, for physicians over 60 years old, the patient mortality rate is about 12.1%.
More recent training
One potential reason for this is that younger doctors have more recent training that may cover more areas. They are more familiar with developments in medical technology and healthcare sciences. A doctor in their 60s may have graduated from school 40 years previously, whereas a doctor in their 30s may have recently exited medical school. This up-to-date information helps them provide better care.
The patients they receive
On the other hand, experience is also beneficial for a physician. It could be that older and more experienced physicians are given the more serious cases. These patients are naturally going to have a higher mortality rate because they have more significant ailments or injuries.
Have you experienced medical malpractice?
If a loved one has passed away while receiving medical care, you may believe that a doctor’s mistakes constituted medical malpractice. If so, be sure you know what legal steps to take to seek proper compensation for medical bills, lost earnings, funeral and burial costs and more.
