Risk Management, Research Paper Example

A report by the Institute of Medicine states that systems that aid in prevention and mitigation of errors are essential in any health care organization. These systems ensure that safe practices are in place and risks are considerably decreased (IOM, 2001). As a consequence, organizations are now placing considerable importance in risk management methods and strategies in order to achieve better outcomes and effective solutions. In our institution, risks are primarily identified at the ward level. It is organizational policy to routinely conduct risk assessments for procedures and situations and this is documented and submitted to the Risk Management department. Similarly, errors and incidents within the workplace such as drug errors, needle prick injury or complaint from a patient or relative are duly documented using an incident form and submitted to the Risk Management department. It is the Risk Management team’s duty to conduct an investigation and liaise with the involved manager to discuss the progress of the case and discuss how best to address the issue.

In this organization, the risk management team operates effectively through proper recording and auditing of cases as well as coordinating with other departments or employees to address identified issues or risks within the organization. However, one fundamental aspect in risk management is proper reporting of errors and there is a culture of under-reporting of incidents or occurrence of errors. One recommendation to address this need is the implementation of a simple and consolidated database that would streamline the process of submitting reports using a web-based facility. Employees can submit anonymous reports while managers can access submitted data and analyze these. A system such as this can have marked benefits for employees, the organization and its client base namely: (1) an easy to use system will facilitate reporting of incidents or identified risks, (2) it allows for timely and efficient data analysis, and (3) gaps in care can be immediately identified and addressed.

References

Adams, C. et al. (2000). Reducing Medical Errors and Improving Patient Safety. Battle Creek, MI: National Coalition on Health Care and the Institute for Healthcare Improvement

Institute of Medicine (2001). Crossing the quality chasm: a new health system for the 21^st century. Washington (DC): National Academy of Sciences.

Kohn, L. T. et al. (2001). Crossing the Quality Chasm. Washington,DC: National Academy Press.