Strengthening the Medical Error “Meme Pool”

Abstract

The exact number of patients in the USA who die from preventable medical errors each year is highly debated. Despite uncertainty in the underlying science, two very large estimates have spread rapidly through both the academic and popular media. We utilize Richard Dawkins' concept of the "meme" to explore why these imprecise estimates remain so compelling, and examine what potential harms can occur from their dissemination. We conclude by suggesting that instead of simply providing more precise estimates, physicians should encourage nuance in public medical error discussions, and strive to provide narrative context about the reality of the complex biological and social systems in which we practice medicine.

Medicine’s dangerous optimism: lessons from Dr Pangloss

“…These methods have led to preposterous estimates of deaths caused by preventable adverse events, some higher than 400,000 annually in the United States. 4 The estimates’ flawed optimism is that ‘once the doctor intervenes, death is optional’, radiologist Saurabh Jha has said. 5 Hospitals are the best of all possible worlds, where every poor outcome is preventable with the right care.…”

Development and applications of the anaesthetists’ non-technical skills behavioural marker system: protocol for a systematic review

“…4 Mazer assessed preventable medical errors as the third leading cause of death in the USA. 5 The economic burden created by adverse events and particularly preventable adverse events is substantial. 6 Recent evidence suggests that 15% of total hospital expenditures and…”

Quality improvement knowledge in pediatric hematology/oncology physicians: A need for improved education

“…There are concerns that medical errors cause preventable deaths, increased healthcare costs, and poor patient experience 1–6 . Given these concerns, subspecialties created quality improvement (QI) curricula for trainees, but curricula for pediatric hematology/oncology (PHO) fellows are lacking 7–14 .…”

“…There are concerns that medical errors cause preventable deaths, increased healthcare costs, and poor patient experience. [1][2][3][4][5][6] Given these concerns, subspecialties created quality improvement (QI) curricula for trainees, but curricula for pediatric hematology/oncology (PHO) fellows are lacking. [7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14] Learning about QI in PHO is important given the unique complexities of chemotherapy and immunocompromised patients.…”