Healthcare System Must Learn From Mistakes to Prevent Further Harm
New research shows how investigations after medical harm can make things worse—and how the health care system must do better.
When a medical mistake happens, it can change lives in an instant. Patients and their families want, need and deserve answers. Healthcare workers may be shaken too. But instead of helping people heal, the way these incidents are investigated often causes more harm, what is termed ‘compounded harm’.
A new UK-based study looks at what happens after patient safety incidents—like when someone is harmed during medical care—and how the investigation process affects everyone involved. The researchers spoke to 42 people, including patients, families, hospital staff, legal professionals, and investigators.
What they found was deeply troubling: many people start these investigations hoping for honesty, support, or change—but end up feeling ignored, powerless, and deeply frustrated. Some families even felt forced into taking legal action, not because they wanted to sue, but because it was the only way to get answers.
Hospital staff also reported feeling shut out, unsupported, and blamed. And the investigators—the people who are supposed to look into what went wrong—said their work was emotionally draining, underappreciated, and made harder by a lack of training or support.
At the heart of the problem? A fear of being sued and a defensive system more focused on protecting organizations than helping people.
The study’s authors say it’s time to change that. They recommend putting people first—acknowledging emotional pain, supporting everyone involved, and being honest and fair. They also call for better training for investigators and a focus on fairness and equity.
The researchers suggest five key changes:
Focus on the needs of the people who were harmed.
Let go of the fear of being sued so the process can be more caring and honest.
Respect and support the people doing these tough investigations.
Make sure patients, families, and staff get clear information and help.
Make the process fair for everyone, especially those who may already face unfair treatment.
The Department of Health here recently sought views on the draft ‘Being Open’ Framework and the establishment of a Duty of Candour in Northern Ireland. You can read New Script’s response here. Watch a video by Mary Gould here.