Client: Trantolo Law Firm
Copyright 2008 Trantolo Law Firm
Prescription Errors
Prescription errors are most often blamed on physicians, when in fact the overall health care system is largely to blame. Research patterns have shown that approximately 28% of all prescription errors could have been avoided through having a better system in place.
Medication Error Index
One positive step in the process of reducing prescription errors is the development of the Medication Error Index. This process links medication error to the medication type and the severity of injury to the patient. This system is shifting focus from individual practitioners to the system processes that are currently in place.
Other Error Reduction Methods
Efforts to further reduce prescription errors include such strategies as:
� Increasing light in prescription writing and filling areas
� Decreasing clutter in prescription writing and filling areas
� Reducing time restraints on physicians
� More adequate personnel training
� Repeating all verbal orders
Another major method of reducing the occurrences of prescription errors is through enhanced physician and patient communication. Physicians must do their part to be sure the correct prescriptions get into their patient's hands.
Through clearer communication, the physician can determine whether or not a possible error has been made somewhere in the process. Information as to how the prescription medication is working, any occurring side effects and reasons that the patient may not be taking the medication, including financial problems can aid in the discovery of an error.
To learn more about prescription errors and your rights, please contact Trantolo and Trantolo today.