Learning from errors in Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging: Fostering a culture of socio-cultural growth

Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging continues to advance in both technology and clinical applications, yet it faces numerous challenges, particularly when it comes to errors. These errors, which can be classified as either perception errors (changes that are not seen or are seen and ignored) or cognition errors (misjudgments, mistakes, or incorrect conclusions often caused by the brain’s simplification of information processing), can lead to false negative or positive reports and flawed clinical reasoning. A flock provides a compelling analogy for addressing these challenges, as it reflects how individuals dynamically adjust to one another in response to subtle cues; similarly, veterinary radiology teams can learn from errors through shared awareness and socio-cultural collaboration, fostering continuous improvement in diagnostic accuracy and patient care.Historically, these mistakes have often been stigmatised, leading to a blame culture that discourages transparency and the reporting of errors. However, emerging research and institutional experiences highlight that openly acknowledging these imperfections—and the uncertainties inherent in diagnostic imaging—is essential for both individual and collective professional growth. Recent studies indicate that when veterinary radiologists shift away from the fear of making or admitting mistakes, they foster environments that support active learning, emotional resilience, and safer patient care. With the growing recognition that error admission is not a sign of incompetence, but rather an opportunity for reflection and advancement, veterinary radiology is experiencing a cultural shift. Institutions that facilitate open discussion about perception and cognition errors, and welcome diagnostic uncertainty as an inherent feature rather than a flaw, are demonstrating measurable improvements in clinical reasoning, teaching quality, and diagnostic accuracy. Central to this evolution is fostering nonjudgmental spaces where clinicians and educators learn from one another, embrace uncertainty, and build stronger analysis and community.The aim of this Research Topic is to curate and promote research, case studies and expert opinions that encourage a culture of learning within veterinary radiology. We seek contributions that examine how veterinary educators and clinicians can create trust-based environments, normalize the admission of diagnostic errors, and champion the principle that embracing uncertainty ultimately leads to better patient care and improved teaching. Submissions are encouraged to propose and analyze concrete strategies that dismantle traditional stigmas associated with mistakes and uncertainty.This Research Topic will focus on approaches that promote safe learning environments, cultivate open conversations about errors, and reframe diagnostic uncertainty as an essential educational tool. We welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:• Establishing frameworks and leadership for a learning-from-errors culture• Normalizing error disclosure and supporting emotional well-being• Teaching strategies to embrace and communicate diagnostic uncertainty• Case-based learning examples centered on error analysis• Institutional programs for morbidity and mortality rounds for interdisciplinary participation and transparency.• Interdisciplinary approaches and feedback mechanisms• The impact of reframing errors on clinical outcomes and teaching• Psychological safety and peer support for veterinary radiologistsArticles may include original research, review articles, case reports, perspective pieces, and institutional experiences. Topic editors: Sibylle Maria Kneissl Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/79180/learning-from-errors-in-veterinary-diagnostic-imaging-fostering-a-culture-of-socio-cultural-growth