The commissioned research explored the implementation of the duty of candour among osteopaths and chiropractors, aiming to enhance transparency and patient communication when issues arise in care. The duty of candour requires healthcare providers to openly and honestly inform patients about incidents that may cause harm or distress, offering explanations, apologies if appropriate, and remedies or support. 

The Findings 

The research explored patient perspectives on the Duty of Candour, revealing low initial awareness among participants, with increased importance once understood. Key findings indicated that patients expect transparency from practitioners but recognise various factors that affect compliance, including professional ethics, the patient-practitioner relationship, and organisational culture. Patients acknowledge their own role in engaging with their treatment but also expect practitioners to be open about errors to build trust. 

The research showed patient expectations are influenced by their vulnerability, the commercial nature of healthcare settings, and the perceived formality of the practice environment. There is a diverse range of patient views, with some more cynical and others more trusting of practitioners’ motivations. When things go wrong, patients appreciate the challenges practitioners face but still expect apologies and appropriate redress, emphasising that apologies should be genuine and involve dialogue. 

Participants highlighted the need for better patient information on regulatory processes and complaint reporting, rather than explicit details about the Duty of Candour. They advocated for practitioners to receive clear guidance on candour. The overall takeaway pointed to a call for a better balance between transparency, professional reflection, and learning from mistakes to enhance patient trust and care quality. 

Fiona Browne, Director of Education, Standards and Development from the GOsC has encouraged osteopaths to use the report's case studies for continuing professional development, emphasising the importance of communication skills when working through difficult situations. The research is aimed at supporting practitioners in fostering positive patient interactions and ensuring compliance with ethical standards in healthcare practice. 

Check out the full report here: duty-of-candour-workshop-report.pdf