Understanding diagnostic errors in U.S. emergency care and their impact on patients and costs

The Epidemiology of Diagnostic Error in Emergency Care in the United States and the Association with Patient Outcomes and Healthcare Costs

NIH-funded research Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center · NIH-10932292

This study looks at how often mistakes happen when diagnosing patients in emergency rooms and what those mistakes mean for people's health, so we can find ways to make sure everyone gets the right care when they need it most.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10932292 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the prevalence and consequences of diagnostic errors in emergency departments across the United States. By analyzing national claims data, the study aims to quantify how often these errors occur, particularly for high-risk conditions, and to identify the symptoms commonly associated with them. The research will also explore the relationship between diagnostic errors and patient outcomes, as well as the factors that contribute to these errors in emergency care settings. This information is crucial for improving diagnostic accuracy and patient safety in emergency medicine.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced emergency care in U.S. emergency departments and may have been affected by diagnostic errors.

Not a fit: Patients who have not utilized emergency services or those with conditions that do not typically present in emergency settings may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic practices in emergency care, ultimately enhancing patient safety and reducing healthcare costs.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that addressing diagnostic errors in emergency care can lead to significant improvements in patient outcomes, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.