A recent survey found that almost one-third of Americans have either experienced a medical error themselves or had a friend or relative experience one. Â The survey by global healthcare information provider Wolters Kluwer Health noted that 73% of respondents are concerned about medical errors, with 45 percent “very concerned” about them.
The medical errors discussed in the survey include being given the wrong medication, dosage, or treatment; over 20 percent of the survey respondents said they have been given the wrong diagnosis by their doctor. Â 45 percent reported having been billed incorrectly by their healthcare provider. Â Other findings include 18% of respondents indicating that they’ve asked a doctor or nurse to wash their hands; 66% doing their own research in confirmation of a doctor’s diagnosis or treatment plan; and 35% who felt that staff miscommunication was the top reason for medical errors.
In spite of these reported issues, 68% expressed confidence that the continued adoption of new healthcare technologies will lead to a decrease in medical errors. Â Electronic Medical Records systems like Medisoft Clinical, Allscripts MyWay, or McKesson Practice Choice are among the healthcare IT options that can reduce errors and increase patient care. Â Call Microwize Technology today for more information!