What is a key characteristic of high-reliability organizations (HROs) in healthcare?

A key characteristic of high-reliability organizations (HROs) in healthcare is their consistent focus on minimizing risk and maximizing safety. This approach involves creating systems and processes that prioritize patient safety and prevent errors, even in complex or high-stakes environments. HROs achieve this through a commitment to safety culture, ongoing training, communication, and continuous monitoring of safety practices. Their operations are designed to reduce variability and errors, demonstrating a proactive stance towards risk management. This is essential in healthcare, where the well-being of patients is paramount and where mistakes can have serious consequences.

The other characteristics mentioned do not align with the principles of high-reliability organizations. Operating with minimal documentation may lead to a lack of important information that is necessary for ensuring patient safety. Prioritizing cost-cutting over quality could compromise care, while focusing solely on patient volume might detract from the attention and resources available for ensuring safety and reliability in care delivery.