Resumen

ORTEGA T, Dulia; GARCIA M, César  y  ZARATE C, Mónica. RADIOLOGISTS VIEWPOINTS CONCERNING ERROR-MAK-ING AND LITIGATION RISK IN RADIOLOGY PRACTICE IN CHILE. Rev. chil. radiol. [online]. 2008, vol.14, n.3, pp. 158-165. ISSN 0717-9308.  doi: 10.4067/S0717-93082008000300010.

Error management is a key factor in radio-logy practice to prevent unfavorable outcomes and conflicts in healthcare settings. In the framework of radiology practice at national level there are no records on the impactofthis issue upon radiologists. A survey was conducted among 123 radiologists attending the Course Update in Radiology, 2005, aimed at assessing error-making awareness so as to provide radiology community and healthcare institutions with findings intended to promote discussion among them. Seventy-three (73) forms considered pertinent were analyzed. Radiologists are aware that error-making and its consequences in medical practice is frequent and preventable, and that it may transíate into conflicts and eventual lawsuits. Errors must be informed to pa-tient, clinician or radiologist involved. Most radiologists has information about error mechanisms and wants to learn more about error mamagement strategies. Looking forward, an increase in conflicts is percei-ved, but faster solutions as well. It is mandatory for radiologists and healthcare institutions to implement effective policies for preventing medical error an its consequences.

Palabras clave : Error management strategies; Medical error; Medical Ethics; Radiology and radiologists.