J.Jpn. Surg. Soc.. 114(2): 92-96, 2013

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Feature topic

RESULTS OF THE MODEL PROJECT TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF DEATHS RELATED TO MEDICAL PRACTICE

A model project to determine the cause of deaths related to medical practice began in 2005. Since 2010, it has been managed by the Japan Medical Safety Research Organization (JMSRO), which is supported financially by the government and a majority of medical societies and organizations. There is a central office in Tokyo and nine local offices nationwide. When the JMSRO accepts a case, it makes a report on the cause of death and measures to prevent recurrence after detailed autopsy and clinical evaluation. So far, 180 cases have been accepted, of which 156 have been completed. A system to achieve the goals of the project has been established. About 80% of families of the deceased and medical organizations stated that they were satisfied with the results. Four families have initiated civil actions, and another four could potentially do so. No criminal charges have been filed. A new concept to establish an official third-party organization to analyze causes of medical practice-related deaths has been proposed by a committee under the JMSRO, and efforts should be made to put that proposal into practice.

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