BOTTOM LINE
Given a hypothetical situation in which harm occurred as the result of a medical error, patients overwhelmingly report that they would want to be told of the error. Full disclosure increases patient satisfaction, trust, and positive emotional responses.
Although this disclosure may make them feel better, it may not decrease their desire to sue. Most patients (83%) would want financial compensation for an injury that occurs because an error, and 13% expressed a desire for compensation even if harm didn’t occur. A questionnaire of this type does not evaluate the role of bedside manner during the process of disclosure. (LOE=2c)