Patient-facing communication for cytopathologists: A framework for disclosing diagnostic error

Area of Science:

• Medical error disclosure
• Patient safety in pathology
• Communication in healthcare

Background:

• Medical errors pose significant risks to patients.
• Regulatory bodies and safety experts advocate for error disclosure to enhance transparency and accountability.
• Pathologists infrequently disclose errors directly to patients, citing confidence and training deficits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the barriers pathologists face in disclosing medical errors directly to patients.
• To provide a practical framework and guidance for error disclosure, especially for cytopathologists.
• To strengthen patient safety culture within pathology through improved communication practices.

Main Methods:

• A case-based format using fine-needle aspiration (FNA) examples.
• Development of a framework, heuristic principles, and structured conversation systems.
• Guidance and talking points for pathologists to facilitate disclosure conversations.

Main Results:

• Identifies lack of confidence and training as key barriers for pathologists in error disclosure.
• Highlights cytopathologists' unique advantage in patient interaction during FNA procedures.
• Provides actionable strategies and communication tools for effective error disclosure.

Conclusions:

• Direct medical error disclosure is crucial for improving patient safety and healthcare accountability.
• Cytopathologists are well-positioned to lead in direct error disclosure due to patient interaction.
• Training, practice, and structured communication are essential for empowering pathologists in error disclosure.