https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/Safety-Net-Home Safety Net Home en-us CRICO CRICO 2026 taugello@rmf.harvard.edu (Tom Augello) jrose@rmf.harvard.edu (Jennifer Rose) no Safety Net Podcast Episodes jrose@rmf.harvard.edu Jennifer Rose https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2026/John-Cassidy-Retires What can you say after 45 years defending doctors, nurses, and hospitals in the Harvard medical community? A lot. Defending providers in court requires something different in 2026 than what prevailed in the 1980s, according to John Cassidy, who is retiring as senior partner at Ficksman & Conley. He shares his wisdom and insights for success in medmal defenses today and the future. Mon, 30 Mar 2026 12:00:00 EST What can you say after 45 years defending doctors, nurses, and hospitals in the Harvard medical community? A lot. Defending providers in court requires something different in 2026 than what prevailed in the 1980s, according to John Cassidy, who is retiring as senior partner at Ficksman & Conley. He shares his wisdom and insights for success in medmal defenses today and the future. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2026/JohnCassidy45YearsDefendingDoctors.mp3 no 13:57 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2026/Barriers-to-MD-Mental-Health-Care Progress in the work to solve a problem that threatens all providers and their patients: doctors often don’t seek mental health care because they fear the impact on their careers. Mon, 09 Feb 2026 12:00:00 EST Progress in the work to solve a problem that threatens all providers and their patients: doctors often don’t seek mental health care because they fear the impact on their careers. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2026/BarrierstoMDMentalHealthCare.mp3 no 10:08 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2025/BenchmarkCommunicationsBoulangerSchaffer Communication errors in medmal cases are expensive and becoming more frequent among patients and providers. A new data report from Candello in the Harvard medical community looks at the increasing role played by communication failures, and how more complicated care in the outpatient setting means more complicated communication between providers and patients. Fri, 12 Dec 2025 12:00:00 EST Communication errors in medmal cases are expensive and becoming more frequent among patients and providers. A new data report from Candello in the Harvard medical community looks at the increasing role played by communication failures, and how more complicated care in the outpatient setting means more complicated communication between providers and patients. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2025/SchafferBoulangerBenchmarkCommunication.mp3 no 15:45 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2025/Case-Dismissed-Still-Nightmare If a clinician is sued for medical malpractice and the case never goes to trial, they dodged a bullet right? A physician defendant shares what it was like to be sued, and going through all the ups and downs of defending himself against charges of negligence before the unexpected happened. His patient dropped the case just before trial. Tue, 14 Oct 2025 12:00:00 EST If a clinician is sued for medical malpractice and the case never goes to trial, they dodged a bullet right? A physician defendant shares what it was like to be sued, and going through all the ups and downs of defending himself against charges of negligence before the unexpected happened. His patient dropped the case just before trial. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2025/CaseDismissedButPainEndures.mp3 no 17:45 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2025/Prostate-DX-Error-Prevention For primary care clinicians, a top risk area is related to allegations of delayed diagnosis of cancer. Data in the Harvard system show that the top three cancers in primary care litigation are prostate, lung, and breast cancer. Harvard’s Marc Garnick, MD is a national expert on prostate cancer and liability sharing how to communicate with patients about risks and benefits of testing and interventions to minimize allegations of negligence. Fri, 26 Sep 2025 12:00:00 EST For primary care clinicians, a top risk area is related to allegations of delayed diagnosis of cancer. Data in the Harvard system show that the top three cancers in primary care litigation are prostate, lung, and breast cancer. Harvard’s Marc Garnick, MD is a national expert on prostate cancer and liability sharing how to communicate with patients about risks and benefits of testing and interventions to minimize allegations of negligence. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2025/ProstateCancerPreventionMattMarc.mp3 no 12:12 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2025/Depositions-Make-or-Break-Medmal-Defense A discussion with two legal experts in the Harvard system about why depositions are critical in a medical malpractice lawsuit. Attorneys Lisa Wichter and Alex Terry use their courtroom experience to explain how affect, demeanor, and preparation can change case outcomes. Fri, 13 Jun 2025 12:00:00 EST A discussion with two legal experts in the Harvard system about why depositions are critical in a medical malpractice lawsuit. Attorneys Lisa Wichter and Alex Terry use their courtroom experience to explain how affect, demeanor, and preparation can change case outcomes. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2025/DepositionsMakeorBreakDefense.mp3 no 16:34 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2025/Documentation-Benchmark In a review of Candello’s database of claims from malpractice insurers across the country, documentation failures emerged in one out of every five medical professional liability cases. They are also much more likely to close with a payment with higher than average dollar amounts. Tue, 13 May 2025 12:00:00 EST In a review of Candello’s database of claims from malpractice insurers across the country, documentation failures emerged in one out of every five medical professional liability cases. They are also much more likely to close with a payment with higher than average dollar amounts. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2025/DocumentationBenchmarkReport.mp3 no 9:18 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2025/ROI-Paying-for-Patient-Safety Investing in patient safety programs not only helps patients, but also prevents large payouts for hospitals. And we can measure it. Thu, 06 Mar 2025 05:00:00 EST Investing in patient safety programs not only helps patients, but also prevents large payouts for hospitals. And we can measure it. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2025/ROIpodcast.mp3 no 12:30 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2024/Teleradiology-Risks-Elevated Researchers looking for malpractice risks with virtual visits were surprised to learn that teleradiology was leading the way in professional liability claims over the past 12 years. Virtual office visits didn’t show up in the malpractice claims data, but costs and severity associated with teleradiology claims were well above radiology claims with no telehealth component. Fri, 25 Oct 2024 12:00:00 EST Researchers looking for malpractice risks with virtual visits were surprised to learn that teleradiology was leading the way in professional liability claims over the past 12 years. Virtual office visits didn’t show up in the malpractice claims data, but costs and severity associated with teleradiology claims were well above radiology claims with no telehealth component. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2024/CRICOTeleradiologyRiskAdamS.mp3 no 9:32 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2024/New-Study-Finds-Outpatient-Adverse-Events Some top-line conclusions are that outpatient harm was relatively common and often serious, with a call to action for intervention in outpatient errors. Drs. David Levine and David Bates of Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School are joined by their co-author and CRICO Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Luke Sato, who leads our discussion. Fri, 16 Aug 2024 04:00:00 EST Some top-line conclusions are that outpatient harm was relatively common and often serious, with a call to action for intervention in outpatient errors. Drs. David Levine and David Bates of Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School are joined by their co-author and CRICO Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Luke Sato, who leads our discussion. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2024/Outpatient-Safer-Care.mp3 no 13:42 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2024/Rapid-Pulse-360 Several Harvard-affiliated medical institutions are piloting a program to provide personalized feedback to physicians about the effect of their behavior and interactions on others. More than 675 individuals have gone through the Rapid Pulse 360 evaluations as of Spring 2024. Can it have an impact on employment practices claims or provider-to-provider communication factors? And can follow-up one-to-one coaching help? Wed, 29 May 2024 12:00:00 EST Several Harvard-affiliated medical institutions are piloting a program to provide personalized feedback to physicians about the effect of their behavior and interactions on others. More than 675 individuals have gone through the Rapid Pulse 360 evaluations as of Spring 2024. Can it have an impact on employment practices claims or provider-to-provider communication factors? And can follow-up one-to-one coaching help? https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2024/RapidPulse360.mp3 no 8:47 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2024/AI-in-Medicine As artificial intelligence, or AI, takes off in the public sphere, what about medicine? The health care industry has been using some form of AI for decades, yet very recent advancements are upping the ante. This episode of Safety Net presents excerpts from a recent talk to malpractice attorneys by health care AI expert, Dr. Steven Horng, MD, MMSC, of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School. Wed, 17 Apr 2024 12:00:00 EST As artificial intelligence, or AI, takes off in the public sphere, what about medicine? The health care industry has been using some form of AI for decades, yet very recent advancements are upping the ante. This episode of Safety Net presents excerpts from a recent talk to malpractice attorneys by health care AI expert, Dr. Steven Horng, MD, MMSC, of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2024/AIinMedicine.mp3 no 21:33 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2024/Ambulatory-Safety-Nets The Harvard teaching hospitals and their affiliated institutions have banded together to tackle one of the most difficult and deadly challenges that face all health care providers: clinical tests and specialty referrals that are lost to follow-up. Anecdotal evidence already shows patients who were rescued by the Ambulatory Safety Net project. Navigators are convincing patients to follow through, and results are being flagged. Wed, 14 Feb 2024 12:00:00 EST The Harvard teaching hospitals and their affiliated institutions have banded together to tackle one of the most difficult and deadly challenges that face all health care providers: clinical tests and specialty referrals that are lost to follow-up. Anecdotal evidence already shows patients who were rescued by the Ambulatory Safety Net project. Navigators are convincing patients to follow through, and results are being flagged. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2024/AmbulatorySafetyNet.mp3 no 10:11 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2023/Retained-Surgical-Items In late 2023, the Academic Medical Center Patient Safety Organization issued an advisory noting a spike in reports of retained surgical items. A retained surgical item is patient safety lingo for when the surgical team leaves something like a sponge or a tool inside the patient after surgery. These events may lead to serious harm, such as sepsis, prolonged hospitalization, the need for subsequent surgery, or death. Sat, 30 Dec 2023 12:00:00 EST In late 2023, the Academic Medical Center Patient Safety Organization issued an advisory noting a spike in reports of retained surgical items. A retained surgical item is patient safety lingo for when the surgical team leaves something like a sponge or a tool inside the patient after surgery. These events may lead to serious harm, such as sepsis, prolonged hospitalization, the need for subsequent surgery, or death. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2023/Retained-Surgical-Items.mp3 no 8:59 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2023/APP-Benchmark-Sea-Change The topline data from Candello claims analysis do not show an increase in malpractice corresponding to the increased use of APPs. In fact, the claims rate may be declining, adjusting for practice population increases. Wed, 29 Nov 2023 12:00:00 EST The topline data from Candello claims analysis do not show an increase in malpractice corresponding to the increased use of APPs. In fact, the claims rate may be declining, adjusting for practice population increases. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2023/APPpodcastFinal.mp3 no 8:50 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2023/Defendant-Finds-Her-Voice A former doctor defendant found meaning after the ordeal despite her lack of preparation or role models. Dr. Gita Pensa, an emergency medicine physician, made it her professional focus to help other physicians through to the other side of the litigation journey. Tue, 12 Sep 2023 12:00:00 EST A former doctor defendant found meaning after the ordeal despite her lack of preparation or role models. Dr. Gita Pensa, an emergency medicine physician, made it her professional focus to help other physicians through to the other side of the litigation journey. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2023/GitaPensaDefendantSupport.mp3 no 18:24 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2023/ED-Boarding The boarding of critical care patients in the emergency department is an increasing concern because ICUs are often also too full to take them. Wed, 16 Aug 2023 04:00:00 EST The boarding of critical care patients in the emergency department is an increasing concern because ICUs are often also too full to take them. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2023/3ED-Boarding-Critical-Patients.mp3 no 8:51 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2023/Cyber-Security Healthcare providers are facing new threats from online attacks that require new strategies to limit liability, harm to patients, and revenue loss. In spring of 2023, the Academic Medical Center Patient Safety Organization (AMC PSO), issued an updated Patient Safety Alert: Cyber Security and Recovery, available on the CRICO web site. Sat, 10 Jun 2023 12:00:00 EST Healthcare providers are facing new threats from online attacks that require new strategies to limit liability, harm to patients, and revenue loss. In spring of 2023, the Academic Medical Center Patient Safety Organization (AMC PSO), issued an updated Patient Safety Alert: Cyber Security and Recovery, available on the CRICO web site. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2023/CyberSecurity.mp3?sc_lang=en&hash=7B0299EB1B5C0F79E61FBE5D742C0595 no 7:52 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2023/Safer-Care-Study A new study that looks at when, where, and how medical errors occur in the in-patient setting is shining a bright light on threats to patient safety and quality in health care. A topline result of a 25 percent error rate for hospital admissions is getting a lot of attention. Lead author David Bates and others explain the implications for everyone in health care from the board room to the bedside. Fri, 12 May 2023 12:00:00 EST A new study that looks at when, where, and how medical errors occur in the in-patient setting is shining a bright light on threats to patient safety and quality in health care. A topline result of a 25 percent error rate for hospital admissions is getting a lot of attention. Lead author David Bates and others explain the implications for everyone in health care from the board room to the bedside. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2023/SaferCareStudy_v2.mp3 no 10:10 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2023/Home-Hospital Admitting patients to their own homes for hospital care: many factors are coming together to make the “Home Hospital” a hot topic in health care delivery. A roomful of defense attorneys in Boston recently heard about the risks and benefits from the MGB leader in charge of the largest such program in the country. Tue, 14 Mar 2023 12:00:00 EST Admitting patients to their own homes for hospital care: many factors are coming together to make the “Home Hospital” a hot topic in health care delivery. A roomful of defense attorneys in Boston recently heard about the risks and benefits from the MGB leader in charge of the largest such program in the country. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2023/Home-Hospital.mp3 no 12:14 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2023/Copy-and-Paste-Risk When it comes to medical notes in patient charts, copying and pasting carries risks of confusion, patient harm, and liability for providers. Wed, 15 Feb 2023 12:00:00 EST When it comes to medical notes in patient charts, copying and pasting carries risks of confusion, patient harm, and liability for providers. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2023/CopyAndPaste.mp3 no 8:13 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2023/Getting-SMART-About-Harassment Recent data from the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine show that sexual harassment and gender discrimination affect up to 50 percent of women medical students and more than 50 percent of women faculty in medicine. It affects men too. Fri, 13 Jan 2023 12:00:00 EST Recent data from the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine show that sexual harassment and gender discrimination affect up to 50 percent of women medical students and more than 50 percent of women faculty in medicine. It affects men too. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2023/HarrassmentAndSMART.mp3 no 11:09 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2022/Lost-Specimens It is estimated that thousands of medical specimens are lost each month. The impact on the diagnostic process when a specimen is lost is of particular concern. In early 2022, a patient safety document was published by the Academic Medical Center Patient Safety Organization (AMC PSO), to describe ways to prevent harm to patients when specimens are lost. Safety Net interviews two participants with some advice for QI. Mon, 17 Oct 2022 04:00:00 EST It is estimated that thousands of medical specimens are lost each month. The impact on the diagnostic process when a specimen is lost is of particular concern. In early 2022, a patient safety document was published by the Academic Medical Center Patient Safety Organization (AMC PSO), to describe ways to prevent harm to patients when specimens are lost. Safety Net interviews two participants with some advice for QI. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2022/LostSpecimens.mp3 no 8:28 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2022/OR-Fire-Safety Hundreds of patients are harmed in OR fires every year. Experts in patient safety want hospitals and providers to focus more on lowering the potential for fire during surgery. Tue, 16 Aug 2022 04:00:00 EST Hundreds of patients are harmed in OR fires every year. Experts in patient safety want hospitals and providers to focus more on lowering the potential for fire during surgery. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2022/ORFireSafety.mp3 no 6:34 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2022/Simulation-Fit-in-Healthcare The use of simulation in health care has grown worldwide. This year and through 2028, industry business analysts expect double digit growth in a $2 billion market for simulation services, software, and anatomical models. We interview pioneers and leading edge practitioners of the art. Fri, 08 Jul 2022 04:00:00 EST The use of simulation in health care has grown worldwide. This year and through 2028, industry business analysts expect double digit growth in a $2 billion market for simulation services, software, and anatomical models. We interview pioneers and leading edge practitioners of the art. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2022/SimulationFit.mp3 no 10:06 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2022/Virtual-Informed-Refusal Find out how to respond when patients decline recommendations around virtual care. The AMC PSO patient safety alert, called Informed Patient Refusal in Virtual Care, includes a review of likely malpractice allegations and contributing factors. Safety Net interviews one of the co-authors, Dr. Adrienne Allen, Senior Director of Quality, Safety and Sustainability at North Shore Physicians Group Mass General Brigham Salem. Thu, 19 May 2022 04:00:00 EST Find out how to respond when patients decline recommendations around virtual care. The AMC PSO patient safety alert, called Informed Patient Refusal in Virtual Care, includes a review of likely malpractice allegations and contributing factors. Safety Net interviews one of the co-authors, Dr. Adrienne Allen, Senior Director of Quality, Safety and Sustainability at North Shore Physicians Group Mass General Brigham Salem. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2022/VirtualRefusal.mp3 no 15:06 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2022/Nurses-and-Diagnosis A new study shines light on nursing’s role in malpractice claims and preventing diagnostic error. In 62 percent of the cases that involved a communication problem among providers, the patient died. Wed, 30 Mar 2022 04:00:00 EST A new study shines light on nursing’s role in malpractice claims and preventing diagnostic error. In 62 percent of the cases that involved a communication problem among providers, the patient died. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2022/NursingandDiagnosis.mp3 no 9:14 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2022/Fighting-Discrimination-in-the-Health-Profession-at-Harvard Micro-aggressions. Sexual harassment. Discrimination. On this episode of Safety Net, a special roundtable of health care experts looks at the legal and ethical dynamics behind conflicts over discrimination and harassment among colleagues and staff. What’s happening in the Harvard medical system, as a national movement and local lawsuits press institutions to change? Mon, 28 Feb 2022 05:00:00 EST Micro-aggressions. Sexual harassment. Discrimination. On this episode of Safety Net, a special roundtable of health care experts looks at the legal and ethical dynamics behind conflicts over discrimination and harassment among colleagues and staff. What’s happening in the Harvard medical system, as a national movement and local lawsuits press institutions to change? https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2022/EPLRoundtable.mp3 no 19:03 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2022/Benchmark-Candello Each year, thousands of misdiagnosed cancers, technical errors in surgery, and other harm events are added to a national database of medical malpractice claims, and a benchmarking report is released to the public. This year, instead of only describing the significance of the trends and numbers, the sponsoring organization from the Harvard system, Candello, is releasing a report that describes real stories of tangible change arising from those numbers. Thu, 03 Feb 2022 05:00:00 EST Each year, thousands of misdiagnosed cancers, technical errors in surgery, and other harm events are added to a national database of medical malpractice claims, and a benchmarking report is released to the public. This year, instead of only describing the significance of the trends and numbers, the sponsoring organization from the Harvard system, Candello, is releasing a report that describes real stories of tangible change arising from those numbers. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2022/Benchmark-Report-2021Illuminate2.mp3 no 9:19 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2021/Hospitalist-Malpractice-Risk-Grows Dr. Adam Schaffer, a hospitalist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital & Senior Clinical Analytics Specialist at CRICO is lead author of a study on the topic published in the Journal of Hospital Medicine in June 2021. Wed, 27 Oct 2021 04:00:00 EST Dr. Adam Schaffer, a hospitalist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital & Senior Clinical Analytics Specialist at CRICO is lead author of a study on the topic published in the Journal of Hospital Medicine in June 2021. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2021/HospitalistStudy.mp3 no 11:34 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2021/RAP-at-Lahey Understanding its own risks and patient care vulnerabilities is vital to a health organization, but gaining that understanding is hard. Hospital leaders in the Harvard system are enthusiastic about outside risk assessments from CRICO, because the recommendations that come out are tangible, with no punitive component. Wed, 29 Sep 2021 04:00:00 EST Understanding its own risks and patient care vulnerabilities is vital to a health organization, but gaining that understanding is hard. Hospital leaders in the Harvard system are enthusiastic about outside risk assessments from CRICO, because the recommendations that come out are tangible, with no punitive component. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2021/RAPforLahey.mp3 no 10:10 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2021/Back-to-Court COVID-19 has had a profound impact on the legal system since the pandemic interrupted normal operations in Spring of 2020. In Massachusetts, trials were suspended, and all non-emergency court business stopped. Long-time medical malpractice defense attorney Richard Riley of Murphy & Riley, PC in Boston explains the uncertainty of the litigation landscape as courts try to reopen for trial in the Bay State. Hint: medical malpractice cases have lower priority than their criminal counterparts. Tue, 24 Aug 2021 04:00:00 EST COVID-19 has had a profound impact on the legal system since the pandemic interrupted normal operations in Spring of 2020. In Massachusetts, trials were suspended, and all non-emergency court business stopped. Long-time medical malpractice defense attorney Richard Riley of Murphy & Riley, PC in Boston explains the uncertainty of the litigation landscape as courts try to reopen for trial in the Bay State. Hint: medical malpractice cases have lower priority than their criminal counterparts. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2021/BackToCourtMedmalBackSeat.mp3 no 18:45 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2021/CRC-Screen-Now-45 Lowering the age for asymptomatic colon cancer screening from 50 to 45 suggests some important changes for physician practices. Joining us to talk about this change and more is Dr. Joseph Feuerstein, a gastroenterologist at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, and an advisor for “Prevention and Early Detection of Colorectal Cancer: A Decision Support Tool,” previously developed through CRICO. Thu, 22 Jul 2021 04:00:00 EST Lowering the age for asymptomatic colon cancer screening from 50 to 45 suggests some important changes for physician practices. Joining us to talk about this change and more is Dr. Joseph Feuerstein, a gastroenterologist at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, and an advisor for “Prevention and Early Detection of Colorectal Cancer: A Decision Support Tool,” previously developed through CRICO. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2021/CRCGuidelineLowersAgeto45.mp3 no 16:37 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2021/Neonatal-Cooling Making baby cooling safe and available to the infants who need it is moving beyond 2016 recommendations from the AMC PSO, to new advancements. A regional registry of babies considered for therapeutic hypothermia is yielding new insight into how treatment can be delivered more effectively, safely, and consistently to prevent lifetime disabilities. Wed, 30 Jun 2021 04:00:00 EST Making baby cooling safe and available to the infants who need it is moving beyond 2016 recommendations from the AMC PSO, to new advancements. A regional registry of babies considered for therapeutic hypothermia is yielding new insight into how treatment can be delivered more effectively, safely, and consistently to prevent lifetime disabilities. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2021/NeonatalCoolingUpdate.mp3 no 7:03 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2021/Interhospital-Transfer-Risk One of the lesser-known safety risks for hospitals is the transfer of a patient from one facility to another. A new guidance document attempts to make inter-hospital transfers safer. Thu, 27 May 2021 04:00:00 EST One of the lesser-known safety risks for hospitals is the transfer of a patient from one facility to another. A new guidance document attempts to make inter-hospital transfers safer. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2021/InterhospitalTransfer.mp3 no 6:41 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2021/Cures-Act-with-Pat-Folcarelli New federal law gives patients access to almost everything in their medical record, including clinical notes. It allows for a different kind of partnership between patients and providers where they are co-producing the outcome. This may be good for both patient safety and risk management. Mon, 26 Apr 2021 04:00:00 EST New federal law gives patients access to almost everything in their medical record, including clinical notes. It allows for a different kind of partnership between patients and providers where they are co-producing the outcome. This may be good for both patient safety and risk management. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2021/CuresActwithPatFolcarelli.mp3 no 8:59 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2021/Virtual-Care-Guide A new guide called Patient Safety Guidance for the Virtual Visit: Managing Risk in a New Care Setting is available free online. It was produced by the Academic Medical Center Patient Safety Organization, and covers a range of issues from the first decision to engage in a virtual visit with a patient, to the follow-up needed to close important loops, and even quality improvement measures. Dr. Philip Ciampa, task force member, walks through some of the key points. Tue, 30 Mar 2021 04:00:00 EST A new guide called Patient Safety Guidance for the Virtual Visit: Managing Risk in a New Care Setting is available free online. It was produced by the Academic Medical Center Patient Safety Organization, and covers a range of issues from the first decision to engage in a virtual visit with a patient, to the follow-up needed to close important loops, and even quality improvement measures. Dr. Philip Ciampa, task force member, walks through some of the key points. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2021/VirtualCareGuide.mp3 no 16:02 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2021/Equity-and-Diversity For vulnerable and under-served communities, patient safety and quality care were at added risk from the COVID-19 pandemic. At Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, an established team for care equity and diversity knew early on in the pandemic that they had a lot of work to do. Thu, 25 Feb 2021 05:00:00 EST For vulnerable and under-served communities, patient safety and quality care were at added risk from the COVID-19 pandemic. At Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, an established team for care equity and diversity knew early on in the pandemic that they had a lot of work to do. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2021/EquityandDiversity.mp3 no 14:15 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2021/Early-Resolution The goal of these new early resolution and communication programs isn't just transparency, but early and added involvement from the insurer and the health institution. And it almost doesn't matter if there was any negligence. It also doesn't seem to lead to more lawsuits and higher costs. Fri, 29 Jan 2021 05:00:00 EST The goal of these new early resolution and communication programs isn't just transparency, but early and added involvement from the insurer and the health institution. And it almost doesn't matter if there was any negligence. It also doesn't seem to lead to more lawsuits and higher costs. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2021/EarlyResolution.mp3 no 13:14 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2015/Clinicians-Not-Alone The defendant is the single most important witness at trial. In many cases, the outcome of a trial will come down to whether or not the jurors like and trust the defendant. For this reason, defense attorneys and malpractice insurers are offering defendant clinicians more support services to prepare for testimony and cope with stress. Thu, 28 Jan 2021 05:00:00 EST The defendant is the single most important witness at trial. In many cases, the outcome of a trial will come down to whether or not the jurors like and trust the defendant. For this reason, defense attorneys and malpractice insurers are offering defendant clinicians more support services to prepare for testimony and cope with stress. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2015/PamPodNotAlone.mp3 no 6:06 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2020/Palliative-Care Excellent palliative care is inherently challenging. Over-capacity hospitals and a shortage of palliative specialists that pre-dated the COVID crisis have led to some improvisation and innovation. An expert practitioner from the Metro DC area shares his personal experience and some insights that might help improve communication between any specialist and their patients. Thu, 17 Dec 2020 05:00:00 EST Excellent palliative care is inherently challenging. Over-capacity hospitals and a shortage of palliative specialists that pre-dated the COVID crisis have led to some improvisation and innovation. An expert practitioner from the Metro DC area shares his personal experience and some insights that might help improve communication between any specialist and their patients. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2020/PalliativeDuringCOVID.mp3 no 18:37 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2020/Word-to-the-Wise Misuse of language can have serious clinical consequences. It can also leave patients and families with a bad impression or misunderstandings. We invited two physicians who authored a JAMA Perspective on the topic to explain what worries them and what doesn't, when it comes to the misuse of words in medicine. Mon, 23 Nov 2020 05:00:00 EST Misuse of language can have serious clinical consequences. It can also leave patients and families with a bad impression or misunderstandings. We invited two physicians who authored a JAMA Perspective on the topic to explain what worries them and what doesn't, when it comes to the misuse of words in medicine. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2020/WordToTheWise.mp3 no 13:11 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2020/COVID-Threatens-Primary-Care Many health care practices are under financial duress from the COVID-19 pandemic, and this is affecting access to care. Televisits can't do it all. A Massachusetts consortium of public and private entities surveyed nearly 400 practices of various sizes and specialties in late spring and early summer 2020. How all hands on deck isn't necessarily a great patient safety strategy during the pandemic. Wed, 28 Oct 2020 04:00:00 EST Many health care practices are under financial duress from the COVID-19 pandemic, and this is affecting access to care. Televisits can't do it all. A Massachusetts consortium of public and private entities surveyed nearly 400 practices of various sizes and specialties in late spring and early summer 2020. How all hands on deck isn't necessarily a great patient safety strategy during the pandemic. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2020/COVIDThreatensPrimaryCare.mp3 no 8:01 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2020/Power-to-Predict New research shows a link between the presence of three common factors in malpractice cases and the likelihood they will end up in a payment to the plaintiff. Look out for documentation deficiencies, lack of a protocol or failure to follow one, and patient assessment issues. Fri, 11 Sep 2020 04:00:00 EST New research shows a link between the presence of three common factors in malpractice cases and the likelihood they will end up in a payment to the plaintiff. Look out for documentation deficiencies, lack of a protocol or failure to follow one, and patient assessment issues. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2020/PowertoPredictCBS2020.mp3 no 11:24 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2020/Defendants-Cool-Their-Heels-During-COVID Becoming a defendant in a malpractice lawsuit is often a long-term proposition under ordinary times. During this COVID-19 pandemic, the courts are struggling, and prioritizing: criminal trials first, then civil trials in Massachusetts, where a slow return to trials in September. Tue, 11 Aug 2020 04:00:00 EST Becoming a defendant in a malpractice lawsuit is often a long-term proposition under ordinary times. During this COVID-19 pandemic, the courts are struggling, and prioritizing: criminal trials first, then civil trials in Massachusetts, where a slow return to trials in September. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2020/DefendantsCoolHeels.mp3 no 11:28 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2020/Telemedicine-in-the-COVID19-Era Telehealth, or virtual health care is more popular than ever. The Covid-19 pandemic has seen to that. Two national telemedicine leaders share their expertise on the patient safety and risk management issues related to virtual visits, and how has the pandemic affected all of this. Wed, 15 Jul 2020 04:00:00 EST Telehealth, or virtual health care is more popular than ever. The Covid-19 pandemic has seen to that. Two national telemedicine leaders share their expertise on the patient safety and risk management issues related to virtual visits, and how has the pandemic affected all of this. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2020/TelemedicineCOVID19Era.mp3 no 15:06 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2020/COVID-Not-Normal-For-Providers COVID-19 has dragged thousands of doctors and nurses into front-line wards across the country to pitch in. What is the impact on these providers now and in the future? And does all of this have implications for patient safety? Thu, 28 May 2020 04:00:00 EST COVID-19 has dragged thousands of doctors and nurses into front-line wards across the country to pitch in. What is the impact on these providers now and in the future? And does all of this have implications for patient safety? https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2020/ThisIsNotNormal.mp3 no 9:41 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2020/New-MA-Law-Gives-Health-Providers-Less-to-Worry-About-During-COVID-19 As the COVID-19 crisis continues for hospitals and providers, the State of Massachusetts passed a new law with some protections from liability. Beth Cushing, CRICO’s SVP of Claims, explains how the Harvard malpractice insurer joined leaders across the state to craft a fair legal response to the public health crisis. Wed, 29 Apr 2020 04:00:00 EST As the COVID-19 crisis continues for hospitals and providers, the State of Massachusetts passed a new law with some protections from liability. Beth Cushing, CRICO’s SVP of Claims, explains how the Harvard malpractice insurer joined leaders across the state to craft a fair legal response to the public health crisis. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2020/NewMALawCOVIDLiabilityProtection.mp3 no 8:38 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2020/COVID-Underwriting-Interview-with-Melissa A special edition of CRICO's regular podcast describes how Harvard's malpractice liability insurance program, CRICO, is giving providers extra coverage without extra premiums during the crisis. Telemedicine, retired volunteers, etc., find a streamlined coverage process online, starting on CRICO's dedicated COVID-19 page. Mon, 20 Apr 2020 04:00:00 EST A special edition of CRICO's regular podcast describes how Harvard's malpractice liability insurance program, CRICO, is giving providers extra coverage without extra premiums during the crisis. Telemedicine, retired volunteers, etc., find a streamlined coverage process online, starting on CRICO's dedicated COVID-19 page. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2020/MKempPandemiccoverage.mp3 no 7:27 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2020/Exit-Interview-Darrell-Ranum What has the patient safety movement achieved over the past 20 years, and what lies ahead? An exit interview with one of its longest leaders as he retires and pushes hard on the use of data analytics. Mon, 13 Apr 2020 04:00:00 EST What has the patient safety movement achieved over the past 20 years, and what lies ahead? An exit interview with one of its longest leaders as he retires and pushes hard on the use of data analytics. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2020/DarrellRanumExitInterview.mp3 no 12:31 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2020/Are-You-My-Doctor It's easy to see how patients become confused and dissatisfied in a busy healthcare environment. Multiple risks to patient safety may lie in this scenario; trust, adherence, follow-through, and patient engagement are all on the line. One Harvard graduate and researcher thinks a lot of this can be cleaned up and made safer with a simple card that a physician hands to a patient when they first meet. Mon, 09 Mar 2020 04:00:00 EST It's easy to see how patients become confused and dissatisfied in a busy healthcare environment. Multiple risks to patient safety may lie in this scenario; trust, adherence, follow-through, and patient engagement are all on the line. One Harvard graduate and researcher thinks a lot of this can be cleaned up and made safer with a simple card that a physician hands to a patient when they first meet. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2020/AreYouMyDoctor.mp3 no 10:42 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2020/EHR-Future-2-and-Burnout Too many healthcare providers are burning out on the job. Electronic health records are a big culprit, and Harvard's patient safety and malpractice company has started a call to action. Tue, 28 Jan 2020 05:00:00 EST Too many healthcare providers are burning out on the job. Electronic health records are a big culprit, and Harvard's patient safety and malpractice company has started a call to action. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2020/EHRburnout.mp3 no 9:47 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2019/Sepsis-Diagnosis Sepsis is common and it's deadly. It accounts for five percent of the patients admitted to the hospital and a third of hospital deaths. The worry: sepsis is often difficult to detect, giving rise to dangerous clinical outcomes and liability. Wed, 23 Oct 2019 04:00:00 EST Sepsis is common and it's deadly. It accounts for five percent of the patients admitted to the hospital and a third of hospital deaths. The worry: sepsis is often difficult to detect, giving rise to dangerous clinical outcomes and liability. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2019/Sepsis.mp3 no 9:09 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2019/Aging-Surgeons As the nation copes with an aging population, concern turns to aging surgeons. CRICO’s podcast, Safety Net, interviews one physician expert who is trying to encourage more hospitals to ferret out dangerous diminishing cognitive and physical faculties, with Late Career Practitioner Policies. Thu, 19 Sep 2019 04:00:00 EST As the nation copes with an aging population, concern turns to aging surgeons. CRICO’s podcast, Safety Net, interviews one physician expert who is trying to encourage more hospitals to ferret out dangerous diminishing cognitive and physical faculties, with Late Career Practitioner Policies. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2019/AgingSurgeon.mp3 no 13:30 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2019/Cardiac-Cases-Rise A rise in cardiology malpractice cases goes against general malpractice trends across specialties that show significant declines. Most of the errors in outpatient cardiac cases involve failures in the diagnostic process. Diagnosis errors bedeviled providers in the inpatient setting as well. Tue, 12 Feb 2019 05:00:00 EST A rise in cardiology malpractice cases goes against general malpractice trends across specialties that show significant declines. Most of the errors in outpatient cardiac cases involve failures in the diagnostic process. Diagnosis errors bedeviled providers in the inpatient setting as well. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2019/Whats-up-with-cardiac-cases.mp3 no 8:45 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2018/Generational-Codes-with-Anna-Liotta Understanding “generation codes” gives clinicians insight into their patients’ and colleagues’ mindsets and provides a tool for building the rapport needed for a productive healthcare relationship. Fri, 12 Oct 2018 04:00:00 EST Understanding “generation codes” gives clinicians insight into their patients’ and colleagues’ mindsets and provides a tool for building the rapport needed for a productive healthcare relationship. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2018/AnnaLiottaGenCodes.mp3 no 15:08 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2018/Best-Medical-Practice-Cancer-DX The idea of missing something, or finding out that follow up on a lab order or specialty consult fell through the cracks, can haunt providers. Nothing represents these concerns better than a claim from a patient or family that you failed to diagnose their cancer. A recent review of professional liability claims from across the US shows that diagnosis-related claims account for a higher percentage of dollar costs than any other category. Tue, 11 Sep 2018 04:00:00 EST The idea of missing something, or finding out that follow up on a lab order or specialty consult fell through the cracks, can haunt providers. Nothing represents these concerns better than a claim from a patient or family that you failed to diagnose their cancer. A recent review of professional liability claims from across the US shows that diagnosis-related claims account for a higher percentage of dollar costs than any other category. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2018/BetterMedicalPracticeCancer.mp3 no 7:35 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2018/Closing-the-Loop-3 According to estimates, as many as half of medical specialty referrals are not fully completed. In a study of medical malpractice cases asserted in the Harvard system between 2006 and 2015, 46 cases involved referral breakdowns, with an incurred cost of $11 million. The vast majority involved severe harm to the patient. Closing the Loop... is a guide to prevent this from continuing. Mon, 16 Jul 2018 04:00:00 EST According to estimates, as many as half of medical specialty referrals are not fully completed. In a study of medical malpractice cases asserted in the Harvard system between 2006 and 2015, 46 cases involved referral breakdowns, with an incurred cost of $11 million. The vast majority involved severe harm to the patient. Closing the Loop... is a guide to prevent this from continuing. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2018/ClosingtheLoopDavidTing.mp3 no 10:34 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2018/Family-Role-Grows-in-Patient-Safety Experts: the need to pull families onto the patient safety team will only grow with ongoing trends of shorter hospital stays, and care moving into ambulatory sites and even into the patient's home. Family caregivers will be a big part of safety at each stage. Mon, 18 Jun 2018 04:00:00 EST Experts: the need to pull families onto the patient safety team will only grow with ongoing trends of shorter hospital stays, and care moving into ambulatory sites and even into the patient's home. Family caregivers will be a big part of safety at each stage. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2018/FamilyRole.mp3 no 5:26 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2018/Closing-the-Loop-2 Mishandled specialty referrals in ambulatory care can harm patients and lead to litigation if a diagnosis is delayed or missed. Two leading groups hope individual practices and institutions will use the Guide to make their referrals more reliable and reduce mistakes. Mon, 14 May 2018 04:00:00 EST Mishandled specialty referrals in ambulatory care can harm patients and lead to litigation if a diagnosis is delayed or missed. Two leading groups hope individual practices and institutions will use the Guide to make their referrals more reliable and reduce mistakes. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2018/Closing-the-Loop-Part-II-Singh.mp3 no 7:48 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2018/IHI-Removing-Pebbles Each of the providers at the big, annual IHI quality conference heard a personal message loud and clear above the three-day din: doctors and nurses deserve to have joy in their work. More than that, the happiness of clinicians is essential to good patient care. Tue, 30 Jan 2018 05:00:00 EST Each of the providers at the big, annual IHI quality conference heard a personal message loud and clear above the three-day din: doctors and nurses deserve to have joy in their work. More than that, the happiness of clinicians is essential to good patient care. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2018/IHIBurnoutPodcast.mp3 no 6:30 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2017/AIC-Cares-Grant For two years, The HMS Center for Primary Care partnered with CRICO, to “move the needle” in four areas of ambulatory care. A key success factor: funding so personnel from the 28 practices could meet off-site to collaborate with each other. Watch participants share how this project transformed their practices, and continues to fuel collaboration to prevent medical harm and promote care improvements. Wed, 29 Nov 2017 05:00:00 EST For two years, The HMS Center for Primary Care partnered with CRICO, to “move the needle” in four areas of ambulatory care. A key success factor: funding so personnel from the 28 practices could meet off-site to collaborate with each other. Watch participants share how this project transformed their practices, and continues to fuel collaboration to prevent medical harm and promote care improvements. no 6:38 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2017/Catching-Transitioning-Patients Better clinical outcomes, lower cost: we’re talking about care transitions and a recently completed research project at Cambridge Health Alliance that identified a patient population that needs specialized help after a hospitalization. Our interview is with Dr. Richard Balaban, who led the care transition project, funded through a grant from CRICO. Mon, 06 Nov 2017 05:00:00 EST Better clinical outcomes, lower cost: we’re talking about care transitions and a recently completed research project at Cambridge Health Alliance that identified a patient population that needs specialized help after a hospitalization. Our interview is with Dr. Richard Balaban, who led the care transition project, funded through a grant from CRICO. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2017/CatchingTransitioningPatients.mp3 no 9:55 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2017/Lucian-Leape-Institute On this episode we are at the IHI/NPSF Lucian Leape Institute's 10th Annual Forum. Patient safety luminaries from around the world gathered near Boston to review a new study on public perceptions of medical error, to discuss new trends, and to generate ideas on a singular focus: how to more fully engage a healthcare organization's governing board to make care better and safer. Fri, 13 Oct 2017 04:00:00 EST On this episode we are at the IHI/NPSF Lucian Leape Institute's 10th Annual Forum. Patient safety luminaries from around the world gathered near Boston to review a new study on public perceptions of medical error, to discuss new trends, and to generate ideas on a singular focus: how to more fully engage a healthcare organization's governing board to make care better and safer. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2017/LLIAnnualForumPODCAST.mp3 no 5:31 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2017/Neonatal-Encephalopathy-Guidelines Research and recent experience show that some babies who show signs of brain injury suffered before or during birth have better outcomes when hospitals cool the baby's body temperature. Thus, early identification and treatment of this condition has the potential for improving patient outcomes and reducing the risk of liability. CRICO has recently awarded grant funding to promulgate guidelines, titled “Therapeutic Hypothermia in Neonates,” that were developed under its federally-designated PSO component entity. Thu, 01 Jun 2017 04:00:00 EST Research and recent experience show that some babies who show signs of brain injury suffered before or during birth have better outcomes when hospitals cool the baby's body temperature. Thus, early identification and treatment of this condition has the potential for improving patient outcomes and reducing the risk of liability. CRICO has recently awarded grant funding to promulgate guidelines, titled “Therapeutic Hypothermia in Neonates,” that were developed under its federally-designated PSO component entity. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2017/NeonatalEncephalopathy.mp3 no 7:37 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2017/Judge-Zobel Unlike other areas of modern clinical practice, there still isn’t much training in medical school around what to do or what not to do as a malpractice defendant, or an expert witness for someone else’s case. In a one-on-one interview, author and retired Massachusetts Superior Court Associate Justice Hiller B. Zobel offers some sage how-tos and reassurance as he highlights the second edition of his book, “Doctors and the Law: a guide for physicians entering uncharted waters.” Thu, 11 May 2017 04:00:00 EST Unlike other areas of modern clinical practice, there still isn’t much training in medical school around what to do or what not to do as a malpractice defendant, or an expert witness for someone else’s case. In a one-on-one interview, author and retired Massachusetts Superior Court Associate Justice Hiller B. Zobel offers some sage how-tos and reassurance as he highlights the second edition of his book, “Doctors and the Law: a guide for physicians entering uncharted waters.” https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2017/Doctorsand-theLawZobelPod.mp3 no 9:16 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2017/Legal-Standard-of-Care For many in the medical profession, some of the basics of law and malpractice claims are a little mysterious. The key question about negligence is whether or not the provider failed to meet the “standard of care.” But how do we know what the standard of care is? We hear from a lawyer and and a doctor about what they've learned working in the world of medical errors and malpractice law. Tue, 24 Jan 2017 05:00:00 EST For many in the medical profession, some of the basics of law and malpractice claims are a little mysterious. The key question about negligence is whether or not the provider failed to meet the “standard of care.” But how do we know what the standard of care is? We hear from a lawyer and and a doctor about what they've learned working in the world of medical errors and malpractice law. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2017/doctorlawyerpanelCarlaTomJohn.mp3 no 16:23 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2016/Picking-Fair-Jurors-in-Medical-Malpractice-Trials In Massachusetts, the law recently changed, regarding how juries are selected in civil trials, including medical malpractice cases. Now lawyers can question individual jurors directly. Fri, 11 Nov 2016 05:00:00 EST In Massachusetts, the law recently changed, regarding how juries are selected in civil trials, including medical malpractice cases. Now lawyers can question individual jurors directly. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2016/EllenPodcastJuror.mp3 no 5:37 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2016/David-Bates At a recent gathering of medical malpractice professionals in Boston, health information and international patient safety leader David Bates shared a vision of the next five years of health information and electronic medical records. Fri, 29 Apr 2016 04:00:00 EST At a recent gathering of medical malpractice professionals in Boston, health information and international patient safety leader David Bates shared a vision of the next five years of health information and electronic medical records. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2016/BatesEHM.mp3 no 6:05 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2016/Open-Notes A program called “OpenNotes” gives patients direct access to the notes their doctors wrote in their charts. Will they find mistakes and better understand their care plans with this new tool? Thu, 25 Feb 2016 05:00:00 EST A program called “OpenNotes” gives patients direct access to the notes their doctors wrote in their charts. Will they find mistakes and better understand their care plans with this new tool? https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/FLV/Podcasts/Malpractice-Update/OpenNotesMain.mp4 no 3:53 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2015/Harvard-Hospitals-Receive-2-Million From debriefs after surgery to automatic warnings for abnormal vitals at discharge from the ED, Harvard researchers are using CRICO for funding and influence. Tue, 21 Jul 2015 04:00:00 EST From debriefs after surgery to automatic warnings for abnormal vitals at discharge from the ED, Harvard researchers are using CRICO for funding and influence. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2015/CRICO-Grants-2015.mp3 no 6:43 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2015/Leapfrog-Group-Top-Hospitals In early 2015, an honorary distinction began to appear on web sites and publications for 94 hospitals across the country. They are the nation’s Top Hospitals, according to quality watchdog The Leapfrog Group. Thu, 28 May 2015 04:00:00 EST In early 2015, an honorary distinction began to appear on web sites and publications for 94 hospitals across the country. They are the nation’s Top Hospitals, according to quality watchdog The Leapfrog Group. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2015/Leapfrog.mp3 no 6:06 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2015/DX-Benchmarking-Report Diagnostic errors out-paced errors in obstetrics, and were costlier than surgical cases in the newest annual CRICO Benchmarking Report. In the five-year period studied, 57 percent of the diagnosis-related malpractice cases from across the country arose in the ambulatory setting. By far, the diagnosis most commonly missed was cancer. And the benchmarking data indicate that improvements should zero in specifically on differential diagnosis, test interpretation, and follow-up of consults. This podcast features interviews with diagnosis experts and CRICO leadership. Wed, 11 Feb 2015 05:00:00 EST Diagnostic errors out-paced errors in obstetrics, and were costlier than surgical cases in the newest annual CRICO Benchmarking Report. In the five-year period studied, 57 percent of the diagnosis-related malpractice cases from across the country arose in the ambulatory setting. By far, the diagnosis most commonly missed was cancer. And the benchmarking data indicate that improvements should zero in specifically on differential diagnosis, test interpretation, and follow-up of consults. This podcast features interviews with diagnosis experts and CRICO leadership. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2015/Diagnostic-Error-Benchmark-Report.mp3 no 9:02 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2015/Physician-Health-Service Social media mis-use by physicians is a new area for intervention by professional health services that were initially founded to help with substance abuse. Increased focus on workplace behavior in an era of team training means that now, inappropriate Facebook postings or texts with sensitive information can also threaten a doctor’s professional life. Physician Health Services in Massachusetts shares its experience trying to help clinicians find their way. Tue, 06 Jan 2015 05:00:00 EST Social media mis-use by physicians is a new area for intervention by professional health services that were initially founded to help with substance abuse. Increased focus on workplace behavior in an era of team training means that now, inappropriate Facebook postings or texts with sensitive information can also threaten a doctor’s professional life. Physician Health Services in Massachusetts shares its experience trying to help clinicians find their way. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2015/PHS_massmed_socialMed.mp3 no 9:44 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2014/CRICO-Grants-2014 Ambulatory care is the focus of a dozen research and intervention projects at Harvard, totalling $2.1 million in 2014. Through a little-known patient safety grant program designed at Harvard’s medical malpractice insurance company, CRICO, this year’s projects range from tracking incidental lung nodule findings to helping reduce medication errors in children. Researchers describe their efforts to make care safer for patients and providers. Mon, 30 Jun 2014 04:00:00 EST Ambulatory care is the focus of a dozen research and intervention projects at Harvard, totalling $2.1 million in 2014. Through a little-known patient safety grant program designed at Harvard’s medical malpractice insurance company, CRICO, this year’s projects range from tracking incidental lung nodule findings to helping reduce medication errors in children. Researchers describe their efforts to make care safer for patients and providers. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2014/200CRICOGrants2014.mp3 no 10:13 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2014/QA-Guidelines-in-Court If health care providers use a clinical guideline when they evaluate a patient—and the patient has a bad outcome, are the providers legally free and clear? And what if they don’t follow the guidelines? It turns out to be an under-studied area of the law. So CRICO asked a leading defense attorney, Ellen Epstein Cohen, in Boston for some insights. Thu, 29 May 2014 04:00:00 EST If health care providers use a clinical guideline when they evaluate a patient—and the patient has a bad outcome, are the providers legally free and clear? And what if they don’t follow the guidelines? It turns out to be an under-studied area of the law. So CRICO asked a leading defense attorney, Ellen Epstein Cohen, in Boston for some insights. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2014/Ellen-Cohen-Guidelines-and-the-Defense.mp3 no 6:26 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2013/Burnout-Stalks-MDs With widespread job burnout among clinicians, new studies look at ways to reduce the prevalence and the harm. CRICO interviews researchers and doctors who have left medicine, to share their insights and ideas. Fri, 20 Dec 2013 05:00:00 EST With widespread job burnout among clinicians, new studies look at ways to reduce the prevalence and the harm. CRICO interviews researchers and doctors who have left medicine, to share their insights and ideas. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/MD-Burnout-and-Mindfulness.mp3 no 9:03 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2013/Bold-and-Wrong Doctors are less accurate with difficult diagnoses, yet research shows that their level of confidence in in their conclusions remains high in those cases. The situation is ripe for poor patient outcomes and medical malpractice litigation. Mon, 07 Oct 2013 04:00:00 EST Doctors are less accurate with difficult diagnoses, yet research shows that their level of confidence in in their conclusions remains high in those cases. The situation is ripe for poor patient outcomes and medical malpractice litigation. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2Too-Confident.mp3 no 8:14 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2013/Ambulatory-Sites-Try-M-and-Ms-for-Patient-Safety Morbidity and mortality rounds are a time-honored method of learning from difficult hospital cases. Now that most care—and most lawsuits—happen in ambulatory settings, the Harvard teaching hospitals are trying M+Ms at their out-patient sites. Fri, 17 May 2013 04:00:00 EST Morbidity and mortality rounds are a time-honored method of learning from difficult hospital cases. Now that most care—and most lawsuits—happen in ambulatory settings, the Harvard teaching hospitals are trying M+Ms at their out-patient sites. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/MM_Ambulatory.mp3 no 8:20 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2012/Accuracy-at-Issue-in-New-MA-Disclosure-Law In light of a 2012 disclosure mandate, clinicians are advised to resist the urge to reach a conclusion or speculate when telling patients about care that went wrong. Wed, 05 Dec 2012 05:00:00 EST In light of a 2012 disclosure mandate, clinicians are advised to resist the urge to reach a conclusion or speculate when telling patients about care that went wrong. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2012/DisclosureLaw.mp3 no 7:35 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2012/Residents-Just-as-Liable-as-Attendings Doctors-in-training often mistakenly assume they can’t be sued if they followed their superior’s care plan, but a Boston defense attorney sets them straight. Thu, 30 Aug 2012 04:00:00 EST Doctors-in-training often mistakenly assume they can’t be sued if they followed their superior’s care plan, but a Boston defense attorney sets them straight. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2012/Residents-as-liable-as-attendings.mp3 no 6:18 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2012/Happy-MDs-Rate-Selves-Share-Secrets An online Medscape poll reveals which specialty has the most and least happy members, and CRICO interviews physicians to find out how they reduce stress and stay motivated. Mon, 04 Jun 2012 04:00:00 EST An online Medscape poll reveals which specialty has the most and least happy members, and CRICO interviews physicians to find out how they reduce stress and stay motivated. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2012/2Happiness-and-Doctors.mp3 no 6:58 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2011/Lucian-Leape-Grades-the-Patient-Safety-Movement-Part-2 (Part 2 of 2) The “Father of Patient Safety” reflects on the impact of the patient safety movement 10 years after the IOM report.... its successes…and its disappointments, from a national vantage point. Fri, 09 Dec 2011 05:00:00 EST (Part 2 of 2) The “Father of Patient Safety” reflects on the impact of the patient safety movement 10 years after the IOM report.... its successes…and its disappointments, from a national vantage point. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2012/Lucian-Leape-Grades-Patient-Safety-2.mp3?sc_lang=en&hash=3D624A8FD09DD0F9A676E396D888841E no 10:16 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2011/Lucian-Leape-Grades-the-Patient-Safety-Movement-Part-1 (Part 1 of 2) The “Father of Patient Safety” reflects on the impact of the patient safety movement 10 years after the IOM report.... its successes…and its disappointments, from a national vantage point. Thu, 16 Jun 2011 04:00:00 EST (Part 1 of 2) The “Father of Patient Safety” reflects on the impact of the patient safety movement 10 years after the IOM report.... its successes…and its disappointments, from a national vantage point. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2012/Lucian-Leape-Grades-Patient-Safety-1.mp3?sc_lang=en&hash=DC3F7725BCD0C3A6BF72A64203497719 no 9:28 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2010/Patient-Status-Changes-Trigger-Call-to-MD Strong indicators that telling nurses when to call the doctor to the bedside reduce bad outcomes. Wed, 10 Nov 2010 05:00:00 EST Strong indicators that telling nurses when to call the doctor to the bedside reduce bad outcomes. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/PatientSafety/2012/Patient-Status-Changes-Trigger-Call-to-Doc.mp3 no 7:02 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2007/Adding-Structure-for-Safer-Handoffs Even the best care in medicine can be undermined when responsibility for the patient is transferred from one provider to the next. Hand-offs—both within the hospital and upon discharge—are the subject of increasing attention by malpractice insurers and patient safety researchers. Thu, 01 Mar 2007 05:00:00 EST Even the best care in medicine can be undermined when responsibility for the patient is transferred from one provider to the next. Hand-offs—both within the hospital and upon discharge—are the subject of increasing attention by malpractice insurers and patient safety researchers. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/case/R0703Handoffs.mp3 no 8:41 https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/Podcasts/2006/Surgeons-and-Error-Disclosure We found that the surgeons did the best in the area of explaining the medical facts of the event. But they struggled in other areas: taking responsibility for the event, apologizing for the event, and explaining to the patients about how recurrences of the error would be prevented. Sat, 01 Jul 2006 04:00:00 EST We found that the surgeons did the best in the area of explaining the medical facts of the event. But they struggled in other areas: taking responsibility for the event, apologizing for the event, and explaining to the patients about how recurrences of the error would be prevented. https://rmfcd1-prod.rmf.harvard.edu/-/media/Files/_Global/Audio/MP3s/podcasts/case/R0607surgError.mp3 no 10:00