Het bespreken van medische fouten met de patiënt

How physicians handle errors is becoming an increasingly relevant issue. Patients attach much importance to openness regarding errors made by physicians. Although there is no compelling evidence, it is generally believed that openness of physicians regarding errors results in patients filing fewer complaints. When discussing an error with a patient, the conversation should include empathy with the patient, and measures that will be undertaken to prevent recurrence of the same mistake. In the Netherlands, to admit an error, or to admit that things could have been done better, has no consequences for possible future disciplinary cases. However, the responsibility (e.g. liability) is determined by the insurer and should not be admitted by the physician in advance.