Analysis of Diagnostic Error in Paid Malpractice Claims with Substandard Care in a Large Healthcare System

Abstract
Objective: Although claims databases are not representative of all care delivery, their predisposition toward serious unintended injury can complement resource-intensive chart reviews and guide patient safety initiatives. Materials and Methods: Non-Veterans Health Administration (VA) practitioners reviewed 1,949 VA malpractice claims paid during fiscal years 1998 through 2003. The portion...