Lookback

Lookback is a process that is triggered when a clinical incident or concern leads to the notification and tracking of affected or potentially affected groups of patients. The lookback process is in keeping with a risk management approach and intersects with related processes for example, incident review, open disclosure, critical response. Lookback is also referred to as 'traceability'.

Policy

The NSW Health Lookback Policy Directive (PD2023_003) outlines when NSW Health Services are to initiate a lookback process and the four steps involved.

Resources

Clear, consistent communication is important when communicating with patients, families and carers regarding a lookback event. Sample wording for corresponding with patients regarding a lookback event, that can be adapted for local use, is available here.