Multifaceted program to improve patient continuity of care in hospitals associated with reduction in medical errors

Implementation of a multifaceted program to improve patient handoffs (change in staff caring for a patient) among physicians-in-training residents at a children's hospital was associated with a reduction in medical errors and preventable adverse events, according to a study appearing in the December 4 issue of JAMA, a medical education theme issue. Handoff miscommunications are a leading cause of medical errors. "The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) and the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) have identified improving handoffs as a priority in U.S.