Communication and Optimal Resolution (CANDOR): Mapping Apologies To Improve Error Disclosure Training

https://www.ahrq.gov/patient-safety/settings/hospital/candor/index.html When clinicians disclose medical errors, they commonly offer multiple apologies per disclosure, with significant variation in timing, content, and focus, according to AHRQ-funded research published in Frontiers in Health Services. The simulation-based study analyzed 49 simulated error disclosures by clinical teams and found that the apologies vary; some center on clinician emotion, while others are more patient focused. The findings revealed that a consistent conversation structure can inform training programs aimed at improving communication, transparency, and trust when having harm-response conversations. Access the study and the CANDOR Toolkit to learn how apology strategy can shape more effective patient-centered disclosure practices. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12170606/