In a review of 337,000 patient cases, this was the No. 1 most common preventable medical error

Preventable medical harm is still far too common, but experts say patients can take steps to protect themselves. One in 20 patients (6%) is impacted by preventable medical errors, according to a recent study published in the peer-reviewed journal BMJ. What’s more, about 12% of preventable patient harm results in “prolonged, permanent disability” or even death.