Parental preferences for error disclosure, reporting, and legal action after medical error in the care of their children.
This study used a four-scenario survey instrument to demonstrate that nearly all parents desire full disclosure about a medical error. Based on enrollment of approximately 500 parent participants, investigators also determined that preferences and response did not vary by ethnicity, gender, age, or insurance. The authors conclude that parental desire for reporting increases with severity, disclosure likely reduces the risk for litigation, and disclosure should not be affected by the factors noted above. They advocate for integrating their findings into educational interventions that improve physician disclosure practices.