Global Trends and Evidence Gaps in Medical Errors Research: A Mixed-Methods Scientometrics Study

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Medical Research
• Bibliometrics

Background:

• Medical errors are a major cause of preventable harm globally.
• Understanding research trends is crucial for improving patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the evolution and characteristics of medical error research.
• To explore correlations between medical error research and global health indicators.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods scientometric study analyzed 5,732 publications (1865-2024).
• Correlational analyses examined publication trends, geographic/economic disparities, and thematic evolution.
• Multiple regression assessed links between bibliometric metrics and global indicators.

Main Results:

• High-income countries produced 83.32% of publications, with the Americas leading.
• Most research appeared in high-impact journals (46% Q1), with limited open access (22.98%).
• Research themes shifted from error reporting to mitigation strategies. Intellectual property fees correlated strongly with publication volume (r²=0.75).

Conclusions:

• Significant global inequities exist in medical error research production.
• Limited representation from low- and middle-income countries and restricted open access impede global applicability.
• Thematic evolution indicates progress, but disparities require attention.