Diagnostic error experiences of patients and families with limited English-language health literacy or disadvantaged socioeconomic position in a cross-sectional US population-based survey (4 February 2022)

Summary

Language barriers, reduced self-advocacy, lower health literacy and biased care may hinder the diagnostic process. This US study in BMJ Quality & Safety looks at patient-reported diagnostic errors, what contributes to them and the impact they have, and examines the differences between respondents with limited English-language health literacy or disadvantaged socioeconomic position, and their counterparts.

The authors conclude that:

• interpreter access should be viewed as a diagnostic safety imperative.
• social determinants affecting care access and affordability should be routinely addressed as part of the diagnostic process.
• patients and their families should be encouraged to access and update their medical records.