Annals of family medicine
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Annals of family medicine · Sep 2004
ReviewInterpersonal continuity of care and patient satisfaction: a critical review.
We wanted to review the medical literature regarding the relationship between interpersonal continuity of care and patient satisfaction and suggest future strategies for research on this topic. ⋯ Although the available literature reflects persistent methodologic problems, a consistent and significant positive relationship exists between interpersonal continuity of care and patient satisfaction. Future research in this area should address whether the same is true for all patients or only for those who seek ongoing relationships with physicians in primary care.
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Annals of family medicine · Sep 2004
How and why to study the practice content of a practice-based research network.
We describe the rationale, methods, and important lessons learned from doing a practice content study in a new practice-based research network (PBRN). ⋯ This study helped us establish and activate our new PBRN, increasing its membership in the process. The descriptive data gained will stimulate, guide, and support our future research activities.
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Annals of family medicine · Jul 2004
Multicenter StudyA string of mistakes: the importance of cascade analysis in describing, counting, and preventing medical errors.
Notions about the most common errors in medicine currently rest on conjecture and weak epidemiologic evidence. We sought to determine whether cascade analysis is of value in clarifying the epidemiology and causes of errors and whether physician reports are sensitive to the impact of errors on patients. ⋯ Cascade analysis of physicians' error reports is helpful in understanding the precipitant chain of events, but physicians provide incomplete information about how patients are affected. Miscommunication appears to play an important role in propagating diagnostic and treatment mistakes.