What is the focus of a root-cause analysis in healthcare?

The focus of a root-cause analysis in healthcare is on systems and processes. This analytical approach seeks to identify the underlying factors that contribute to adverse events or near misses within healthcare settings. By concentrating on systems and processes, root-cause analysis aims to uncover the systemic issues that lead to errors, inefficiencies, or unsafe practices rather than assigning blame to individuals. This method emphasizes improving organizational practices and preventing future incidents by addressing the foundational causes, thereby promoting better patient safety and care quality.

Other areas, such as financial discrepancies or staff training requirements, may be relevant in specific contexts but do not represent the primary focus of a root-cause analysis. Instead, the analysis is designed to explore how particular systems, communication pathways, and procedural implementations impact patient outcomes, ensuring that healthcare facilities can implement effective changes and enhance overall performance.