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Duty of Candour Following Avoidable Harm
Prasanna Nemichandra de Silva1
1Department of Psychiatry, Monkwearmouth Hospital, Sunderland, UK.
British Journal of Hospital Medicine (London, England : 2005)
|February 25, 2025
Summary
Healthcare professionals often avoid transparency after avoidable harm, despite legal duties. This article explores pressures against candour and advocates for proactive dialogue and feedback to improve patient safety and trust.
Area of Science:
- Medical Ethics
- Healthcare Law
- Patient Safety
Background:
- The duty of candour is a critical expectation in healthcare, highlighted by statutory inquiries.
- Legal frameworks and professional bodies (GMC, NMC) mandate transparency.
- Clinicians and NHS managers show reluctance in adhering to candour obligations.
Discussion:
- Examines the systemic and professional pressures that impede transparency following adverse events.
- Addresses the conflict between legal requirements and practical implementation of the duty of candour.
- Explores the consequences of a lack of transparency on patient trust and healthcare quality.
Key Insights:
- Reluctance to comply with the duty of candour persists despite legal and professional mandates.
- Avoidable harm necessitates a shift towards proactive, rather than reactive, transparency.
- Open dialogue and feedback mechanisms are crucial for mitigating risks and improving care.
Outlook:
- Recommends a preventative strategy centered on continuous dialogue during patient care.
- Emphasizes the importance of pre-treatment risk consultation and post-intervention feedback.
- Suggests fostering a culture of openness to enhance patient safety and accountability.
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