The design of the study was descriptive and cross-sectional. Secondly, the undergraduate medical training in error disclosure was probed, by looking at the pertinent findings from a broader study on undergraduate communication skills training. Methodsįirstly, the literature was reviewed regarding the training of medical error disclosure. The objective was to formulate a strategy to improve error disclosure teaching and practice, with the goal of improving patient care. To address this knowledge gap, the training of error disclosure in an undergraduate medical programme was examined, against the background of the available literature.

In the South African setting, sparse information exists in terms of undergraduate medical training in error disclosure. However, studies show active avoidance of error disclosure and the need for explicit training. Disclosing errors is not only ethical, but also promotes restoration of the doctor-patient relationship. Despite patient safety initiatives, medical errors remain common and devastating.

Biostatistics khan academy