Disclosing Medical Errors

At the conclusion of this session, the participant should be able to:

1. Understand and Apply Ethical Principles in Medical Error Disclosure
   Learners will be able to identify and explain the ethical foundations—such as autonomy, justice, veracity, and fidelity—that support the obligation to disclose medical errors to patients and families.
2. Demonstrate Compassionate and Effective Communication During Error Disclosure
   Learners will practice and refine communication strategies that show empathy, maintain professionalism, and effectively respond to patients’ emotional reactions, questions, and concerns during disclosure conversations.
3. Implement a Structured Disclosure Process in Clinical Settings
   Learners will be able to outline and execute a step-by-step approach to medical error disclosure, including team preparation, patient meetings, and post-disclosure follow-up, in accordance with institutional policies and best practices.

ACCREDITATION

The Pennsylvania Osteopathic Medical Association (POMA) is accredited by the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) to provide osteopathic continuing medical education for physicians. POMA designates this activity for a maximum of 1 Category 1-A AOA CME credits and will report CME and specialty credits to the AOA commensurate with the extent of the physician’s participation in this activity.

Grievance Policy Statement

"It is the policy of the POMA that any physician dissatisfied with the CME program will be issued a refund upon request, and no CME credits will be reported to the AOA.  Complaints on Evaluation Forms also are taken into consideration when planning future CME programs and may lead to changes in the format or content."  If you have any questions or concerns about this educational experience, you may call the POMA office at (717) 939-9318 or send an email message to cme@poma.org.  All questions or concerns will be addressed promptly.