EP140: When We Do Harm: A Discussion on Medical Mistakes with Dr. Danielle Ofri

In this episode, Dr. Danielle Ofri, a renowned physician and author with extensive experience at Bellevue Hospital and NYU, delves into the critical issue of medical mistakes discussed in her latest book, When We Do Harm. She provides insights into her journey of understanding the prevalence of medical errors, the emotional toll on healthcare providers, and the importance of balancing professional duties with emotional well-being. Dr. Ofri also shares personal experiences and advocates for systemic changes and honest communication to improve patient safety and care. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:00 Discussing "When We Do Harm" 01:53 Understanding Medical Errors 03:50 The Human Element in Medicine 07:08 Personal Experiences with Medical Errors 11:35 Emotional Impact and Coping 17:43 Strategies for Improvement 28:29 Final Thoughts and Recommendations