Diagnostic errors are relatively common in primary care, with an error-rate of 5% in outpatient care. Half of these errors are estimated to be potentially harmful. In the US alone, this means about 6 million patients are potentially harmed by diagnostic errors. [Singh2014]

With a recent series of publications, the WHO wants to raise awareness on the need to improve the safety of primary care.

Better zeronary care can help to reduce diagnostic errors. By offering the patients more insights about their potential diseases before they see the doctor. This allows them to collaborate with the doctor on diagnosis, potentially reducing the odds of overlooking some symptoms or diseases.

Also the over- and under-consumption of healthcare resources could be reduced by better zeronary care. Through a pre-assessment of the patient, they can more consciously decide on asking the assistance of a health care professional.