Diagnosis represents a pivotal moment in a patient’s journey. It is the decision that often determines the patient’s course of treatment, the available interventions, and the possibility for a positive outcome. Below are key facts related to diagnostic error across all settings, based on Coverys clinical claims data. It is important to note that our data is consistent with national data. How big is the problem? Over a five-year period, diagnostic error contributed to 26% of Coverys medical malpractice claims yet accounted for 41% of indemnity paid. What are the consequences? The consequences of diagnostic error are devastating. Patients, their families, and clinical care teams are physically, emotionally, and/or professionally harmed – in many cases, suffering heartbreaking losses. The financial impact creates significant burden for provid- ers and the healthcare system at large. The five-year average indemnity paid for diagnosis-related events is $627,000 – 50% higher than all other types of events. Where do diagnostic errors most often occur? The highest percentage of diagnostic-related malpractice claims occur in ambulatory care settings. Emergency departments and urgent care clinics are the second-most frequent source of diagnostic-related claims. Does the clinical setting matter? Yes, the diagnostic journey varies greatly depending on each setting’s unique characteristics and dynamics. Risk mitigation strategies may vary based on the setting. The subsequent pages of this report examine diagnostic error in the ED – the second-most frequent location for diagnostic error allegations, and quite possibly, the most complex setting for reaching an accurate diagnosis. ( 3 ) DIAGNOSTIC ERROR WHAT MALPRACTICE DATA REVEALS 26% OF MALPRACTICE EVENTS INVOLVED DIAGNOSTIC ERROR Top “Other Events” includes: Surgical,Medical,Medication Patient Safety,Obstetrics 74% N=6,050 events closed 2019-2023. 26% Diagnosis- Related Events All Other Events N=6,050 events closed 2019-2023. AVERAGE INDEMNITY PAID Diagnosis- Related Events All Other Events $627K $412K TOP LOCATIONS FOR DIAGNOSTIC-RELATED EVENTS N=1,610 diagnostic-related events closed 2019-2023. Office / Clinic Inpatient Room Lab / Radiology ED / Urgent Care % Events % Indemnity Paid 34% 36% 28% 25% 21% 22% 12% 13% | HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT | Exposing the Drivers of Diagnostic Error A DOSE OF INSIGHT ® Coverys |