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There is insufficient evidence that double versus single checking of medication administration is associated with lower rates of MAEs or reduced harm. Most comparative studies fail to define or investigate the level of adherence to independent double checking, further limiting conclusions regarding effectiveness in error prevention. Higher-quality studies are needed to determine if, and in what context (eg, drug type, setting), double checking produces sufficient benefits in patient safety to warrant the considerable resources required.

Nine key reasons why there should be more investment in analytical capability: Clinicians can use the insights generated by skilled analysts to improve diagnosis and disease management. National and local NHS leaders can evaluate innovations and new models of care to find out if expected changes and benefits were realised. Board members of local NHS organisations and systems can use analysis to inform changes to service delivery in complex organisations and care systems. Local NHS leaders can improve the way they manage, monitor and improve care quality day-to-day. Senior NHS decision makers can better measure and evaluate improvements and respond effectively to national incentives and regulation. Managers can make complex decisions about allocating limited resources and setting priorities for care. Local NHS leaders will gain a better understanding of how patients flow through the system. New digital tools can be developed and new data interpreted so clinicians and managers can better collaborate and use their insights to improve care. Patients and the public will be able to better use and understand health care data. Action and investment is needed across the system so the NHS has the right people with the right tools to interpret and create value from its data. This could result in an NHS that can make faster progress on improving outcomes for patients.