Evaluation of an innovative disclosure initiative in a regional health system : Évaluation d'une stratégie de divulgation novatrice mise en oeuvre dans un système de santé régional

A Region implementation plan was initiated in the Fall of 2006 thus beginning a roll-out of the new disclosure policy and procedures along with the three other patient safety policies and procedures to the 24,000 staff and 2,000 physicians in the Region at the time. [...] While the interviews were structured around specific questions and themes, the interview format and style of the interviewer enabled a deeper understanding of concepts, situations, and processes that were not necessarily known to the study team at the onset. [...] Given the timeframe and expected completion date for the study, a modification in the protocol was developed and an extension of the deadline was approved by CPSI pending Ethics approval of the protocol modification. [...] The new protocol involved informing the patients/families at the final disclosure meeting of the purpose of the study and their potential interest in participating. [...] In recognition of the sensitivity of the topic, arrangements were made in advance and information was provided at the end of the interviews for emotional support if it was needed by the participant following the interview.