Earlier this year, the IHI/NPSF Lucian Leape Institute worked with NORC at the University of Chicago to conduct a nationwide survey of more than 2,500 adults regarding their experiences with and perceptions of medical error. Results of the survey show that about 1 in 5 Americans report experiencing a medical error in their own care, and one-third report being closely involved in the care of someone else who experienced an error.
The good news is that nearly half of those who say they experienced a medical error spoke up about it to a medical professional or someone else on the staff of the facility where they received care. Of those who did not speak up, most said they did not think it would do any good or they did not know how to report the error.
The survey findings demonstrate the importance of patient and family participation in care, but they also point to an opportunity for improvement.
Similarly, clinicians and staff feel empowered to speak up when they work in an organization that endeavors to create a culture of safety.
During this webcast, held as part of Patient Safety Awareness Week 2018, speakers will discuss the importance of speaking up from the perspective of clinicians, staff, and patients and families.
