Open Disclosure is a frank discussion
with a patient and their support person about a patient-related
incident that may have resulted in harm or injury to the patient.
The NSW Government wants to ensure that if an
incident occurs, patients receive an apology and explanation
and are treated with empathy, honesty and transparency in
a timely manner. Similarly, NSW Health recognises that staff
also need to be supported through such incidents and is committed
to providing the right environment, resources and culture
to guide staff.
Open Disclosure is the
right thing to do. While it is already happening
in many parts of our health service, the NSW Government wants
to ensure it is routinely practised by all staff, thereby
stengthening the relationship and confidence between the patient
and staff involved in their care.
To support this outcome, NSW Health has revised
the Open
Disclosure Policy and the Open
Disclosure Guidelines, and is providing training opportunities
for all staff in NSW Health.
Key principles of Open Disclosure
- Openness and timeliness of communication
- Acknowledgement of the incident
- Expression of regret/apology
- Recognition of the reasonable expectations of the patient
and their support person
- Support for staff
- Confidentiality
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