To Err Is Human (report)

To Err Is Human (pronounced: tuh er iz hyoo-muhn) is a landmark report published by the Institute of Medicine (IOM) in 1999. The report brought significant attention to the issue of medical errors and patient safety in the healthcare system of the United States.

Etymology

The title "To Err Is Human" is derived from the English phrase "To err is human; to forgive, divine," which was first written by the poet Alexander Pope in his work An Essay on Criticism. The phrase suggests that making mistakes is a universal aspect of the human condition. In the context of the report, it underscores the fact that errors in healthcare are not due to individual negligence, but are often the result of systemic issues.

Overview

The To Err Is Human report estimated that between 44,000 and 98,000 people die in U.S. hospitals each year as a result of preventable medical errors. These figures, which were higher than those for deaths from motor vehicle accidents, breast cancer, or AIDS, sparked a national debate on patient safety and led to significant changes in healthcare policy and practice.

Key Findings

The report identified several key areas where errors commonly occur in healthcare, including medication errors, surgical errors, and diagnostic errors. It also highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to reducing errors, including the establishment of a national reporting system for medical errors, the development of safety systems within healthcare organizations, and the creation of a culture of safety in healthcare.

Impact

The To Err Is Human report has had a profound impact on healthcare in the United States. It has led to the development of new safety standards and practices, increased awareness of the importance of patient safety, and sparked ongoing research into the causes and prevention of medical errors.

Related Terms

• Patient Safety
• Medical Error
• Healthcare Quality
• Institute of Medicine

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on To Err Is Human (report)
• Wikipedia's article - To Err Is Human (report)

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