Spoonful of Mediation Helps the Medicine Go Down

Abstract

Although mediation is often preferable to litigation when resolving medical negligence claims, the process may not be a pleasant one for both sides to the dispute. This is mainly due to the intensity of the emotions involved and a number of unseen factors at play. This article highlights a range of psychological issues which the mediator would need to understand and consider when mediating conflicts, including in the healthcare context. The process can, if sensitively and adroitly handled, transform this into a positive experience for the disputants. This could, in turn, lead to productive outcomes.