December 22, 2011 – In a report from CMIO, errors from written prescriptions could be reduced with e-prescribing linked to a Clinical Decision Support (CDS) system.
Researchers find that handwritten prescriptions from 78 different healthcare provider clinics over the span of 1 year contained more than 2 mistakes per written prescription. However, this could be significantly lowered by e-prescribing, since illegibility of handwritten prescriptions would no longer be an issue.
E-prescribing could help reduce errors on its own but with advanced CDS, it could lead to an even greater reduction.
The results of this come from a study where 9,385 handwritten prescriptions were analyzed. For every 100 prescriptions, there were 212.6 prescribing errors. When illegibility of the prescription was taken away as a factor, the errors were reduced to 36.7 per 100 prescriptions. Additionally, 27.8 percent of all prescriptions contained at least 1 type of mistake.
The researchers predict that with e-prescribing, 32 percent of the errors (minus illegibility) could have been found. But with advanced CDS, that could increase to 57 percent.
Contact a New York medication error attorney if you or a loved one has suffered serious injuries as a result of a prescription mistake. An attorney can determine if compensation may be available.
Contacting a New York Medication Error Attorney
When you have sustained a serious injury or lost a loved one because of a medication error you are entitled to seek compensation for your damages and suffering. Consulting with a New York medication error attorney can help you better understand your rights, determine liability for your injuries, and decide if filing a malpractice claim is right for you.
At Gacovino Lake & Associates we have formed a dedicated network of medication error attorneys to serve clients nationwide. Our New York office serves residents of the 5 boroughs with their auto accident, medical malpractice, defective drug, premises liability, and Workers’ Compensation claims. For experienced help with your malpractice claim, contact us today – 1-800-246-4878.
