By examining claims data the researchers were able to identify the frequency of communication errors as well as what type of error occurred. They found that claims featuring communication errors were also less likely to be dropped, denied, or dismissed than claims without these errors. Their findings indicate that communications errors are a significant cause of malpractice claims and pose a financial burden on the health care system.

Citation for the Full-text Article

Humphrey KE, Sundberg M, Milliren CE, Graham DA, Landrigan CP. Frequency and nature of communication and handoff failures in medical malpractice claims. Journal of Patient Safety. 2022;18(2):130-137. doi:10.1097/PTS.0000000000000937

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