Cultures of silence among health professionals harm patients, study finds

Cultures of silence among health care professionals remain a threat to patients and health care innovation, a survey of more than 3,500 clinicians and health care administrators found. The findings, published in American Journal of Critical Care May issue, build upon a landmark 2005 survey. The authors found 32% of respondents say they speak up when witnessing potentially harmful activities among colleagues, an improvement from 10% in 2005, but underscoring remaining challenges. Those expressing their concerns report better patient safety outcomes, patient experiences and clinical outcomes than those who do not and are significantly less likely to consider leaving their organization within the next six months. The study found a culture characterized by strong communication was more likely to implement new technology and clinical practices. (Newswise news release, 4/21/26)