Panel Creates Framework To Study Diagnostic Errors in Emergency Departments

Through an AHRQ-funded grant, a panel of experts proposed that diagnostic errors in emergency departments be defined as “a divergence from evidence-based processes that increases the risk of poor outcomes despite the availability of sufficient information to provide a timely and accurate explanation of the patient's health problem(s).” The 17-member, multidisciplinary panel developed the definition and a diagnostic process framework by reviewing existing literature and participating in a moderated focus group. As stated in the Journal of Patient Safety, the new definition and framework can enhance clinical decision support and development of diagnostic errors measures, and refine diagnostic errors mitigation strategies in emergency departments. Access the abstract.