A study published in The BMJ found medical errors cause 251,000 deaths each year in the United States, making it the third leading cause of death. However, Robin Hemphill, MD, MPH, director of the Veterans Affairs' National Center for Patient Safety, told Michigan Radio accounting for human flaws may bring fewer medical errors in the future.
Here are three points:
1. Dr. Hemphill suggests a more holistic approach when trying to fix the healthcare system, such as understanding medical professionals are humans and humans make mistakes.
2. Dr. Hemphill compared this idea to the car industry, which accounts for human flaws by creating seatbelts, airbags, rumble strips and guardrails.
3. Dr. Hemphil said it's important to create a culture of safety where people are willing to talk about their mistakes and be accountable for them, as well as suggesting a team approach where patients and their families are partners in healthcare.
