Open disclosure is an open and consistent approach to communicating with patients when something goes wrong in healthcare provision. It involves a series of conversations in which openness and empathy are central. This approach is based on the Open Disclosure Framework, which was developed by various healthcare organisations and interest groups.
The benefits of such an approach are clear:
- For patients: increased trust, recognition and clarity about what has happened.
- For care providers: less stress, space for reflection and support during difficult conversations.
- For care institutions: reinforcement of the safety culture, less chance of legal proceedings and a positive image.
Many care providers fear that openness can have legal consequences or lead to loss of liability coverage. However, apologising is not the same as acknowledging liability. This distinction is enshrined in Belgian legislation. Open disclosure is therefore perfectly compatible with the rights and obligations defined by liability insurance.
For this approach to be put into practice successfully, it is crucial for healthcare institutions to draw up clear procedures and give their employees proper support. Open communication should not be confused with legal acknowledgement of liability. More and more institutions are therefore developing a tailor-made policy for the systematic incorporation of open disclosure into their quality assurance.
As a risk partner in the healthcare sector, we support institutions in putting this policy into practice. For example:
- Integration of disclosure into the wider quality and risk policy.
- Guidance for managers and care providers in holding conversations.
- We offer tools, expertise and guidance to make these steps clear and feasible.
Open disclosure is more than a procedure – it’s a choice of culture. Properly applied, it:
- Promotes patient trust.
- Reduces the risk of legal action.
- Contributes to quality and a positive, learning care environment.
As a partner, we actively share ideas about risk prevention and communication policy, so that healthcare institutions are stronger in difficult situations.
Do you want to build an open disclosure policy as a healthcare institution? If so, get in touch with us via spp@vanbreda.be! Together we will look at how this can become a powerful tool for trust, quality and risk management within your organisation.
