The statewide voluntary program allows healthcare providers and patients the chance to have an open and confidential conversation when a serious injury or death occurs with a mediator present. Additionally, insurers provide training and support as part of the program.
Currently, most consultations are about specific incidents and are conducted over the phone. According to Director for Early Discussion and Resolution Melissa Parkerton, roughly one-third (35 percent) of the calls come from providers or facilities and average 12 minutes in length compared with 47 percent from patients averaging 25 minutes.
“Transparency can be scary in these situations,” said Bethany Walmsley, executive director of the Oregon Patient Safety Commission. “But some providers recognize it’s the right thing to do for all involved. Providers, patients and families all benefit so improvement can happen. If we don’t do this, we’ll never get better.”
The commission’s full report on the early discussion program is slated for release this fall.
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