Errors of diagnosis in pediatric practice: a multisite survey.

Area of Science:

• Medical error research
• Pediatric diagnostics
• Patient safety

Background:

• Diagnostic errors in pediatrics are a significant concern.
• Understanding pediatrician perceptions is crucial for developing effective interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To survey pediatricians on diagnostic error frequency, causes, and solutions.
• To identify system- and provider-based strategies to mitigate diagnostic errors.

Main Methods:

• Anonymous internet survey administered to 1362 academic, community, and trainee pediatricians.
• Data collected from November 2008 to May 2009 across 3 tertiary care institutions and 109 clinics.
• Response rate of 53% (N = 726).

Main Results:

• 54% of pediatricians reported diagnostic errors at least 1-2 times/month (77% for trainees).
• 45% reported patient harm from diagnostic errors annually.
• Common errors include misdiagnosing viral as bacterial infections; key factors are poor information gathering and care coordination.

Conclusions:

• Pediatricians frequently encounter diagnostic errors, with significant patient harm.
• Access to electronic health records and close patient follow-up are key proposed solutions.