Almost a third of Americans reported experiencing (or a close friend or family member) a medical error, according to a survey conducted by Wolters Kluwer Health. Such errors include wrong treatment, wrong dosage, wrong medication, etc. Completed in July 2012, this survey consisted of telephone interviews with U.S. consumers. Over 70% of them reported being very concerned or somewhat concerned about medical mistakes, and more than 20% reported having been misdiagnosed by a clinician.
Also revealed in the survey, Americans are taking additional steps to help minimize mistakes. 66% had said to have done their own research to validate a diagnosis or treatment plan. Over half (56%) sought a second opinion. Some other steps taken to prevent medical errors includeded delaying procedures until a day when a clinician might be more rested or focused, writing information down for the doctor or nurse, and, surprisingly, asking a clinician or nurse to wash their hands (18% of respondents admitted having to ask). Women are more likely than men to do research and get a second opinion. The survey also showed that consumers feel that the biggest causes of medical mistakes are miscommunication among hospital staff (35%), clinicians or nurses being in a hurry (26%), doctors or nurses being fatigued (14%), and staffing shortages in hospitals (12%).
On a good note, the survey respondents showed confidence in technology being able to help reduce medical errors. 68% of the survey agreed that technology has had a positive impact in reducing the chance for medical mistakes.