To Report or not: The Dilemma of Reporting Medical Errors among Physicians

Saleh M Aldaqal ,Munaser Alamoodi

doi:10.7575/aiac.abcmed.14.02.02.08

Saleh M Aldaqal , Munaser Alamoodi

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.7575/aiac.abcmed.14.02.02.08

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Abstract

Objectives: Medical errors (ME) can be an important cause in hindering the improvement in the quality of service provided to patients as well as their wellbeing. Underreporting ME by health professionals might prevent identifying the areas that require attention. This in turn, will not only affect the quality of service provided to patients, but also it might increase the rate of litigation and patient harm. Methods and Materials: In a questionnaire on reporting medical errors (RME), we evaluated demographics of physicians, their knowledge on RME and attitude towards reporting and practice of reporting and/or concealing their errors. Results: Reporting was significantly higher among consultants, (P=0.001). Furthermore, 48% (n=81) confessed committing ME, of which 35% (n=59) had reported it. The majority of participants 81% (n=137) consider reporting ME an ethical issue. Conclusion: There is an agreement amongst physicians that reporting ME is an ethical issue. Reinforcement of RME and reducing ME can be achieved by implementing strict guidelines, training personnel efficiently and using the experience of professionals in their appropriate fields. Keywords: Medical errors; Reporting medical error; Physician attitude

Highlights

In the medical field, just as in any practice, the occurrence of errors, mistakes and inaccuracies is inevitable
Medical error can result in tremendous damage and unwanted consequences; the patient's health can be in turmoil and the treating physician can be greatly affected [4,5]
Medical errors (ME) should be differentiated from malpractice in that the former is regarded as honest mistakes or accidents

Summary

Introduction

Just as in any practice, the occurrence of errors, mistakes and inaccuracies is inevitable. Manual work has been replaced by computerized digital systems in the hope of reducing human work-related errors which is extremely crucial in hospitals. When it comes to a patient's life and well-being, mistakes may be unforgivable [3]. Medical error can result in tremendous damage and unwanted consequences; the patient's health can be in turmoil and the treating physician can be greatly affected [4,5].

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