Validity of root cause analysis in investigating adverse events in psychiatry

Root cause analysis (RCA), imported from high-reliability industries into health two decades ago, is the mandated methodology to investigate adverse events in most health systems. In this analysis, we argue that the validity of RCA in health and in psychiatry must be established, given the impact of these investigations on mental health policy and practice.

Automated summary

Root cause analysis (RCA), which was introduced from high-reliability industries into the healthcare sector two decades ago, is now the required methodology for investigating adverse events in most health systems. This article argues that the validity of RCA in healthcare and psychiatry must be established, as these investigations have significant implications for mental health policy and practice.