Patient safety. Remember who it's really for

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Quality
• Patient Safety Research
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Patients are central to patient safety, experiencing its benefits and risks.
• Patients also act as quality surveyors and safety committee representatives.
• Current patient safety programs often prioritize provider interests over patient needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the critical role of patient engagement in advancing patient safety.
• To advocate for a shift towards patient-centered safety agendas.
• To identify key components for successful patient safety programs.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on patient roles in safety.
• Analysis of current patient safety program structures.
• Conceptual framework development for patient engagement.

Main Results:

• Patients are key stakeholders in safety, influencing care quality and outcomes.
• Existing safety programs inadequately incorporate patient perspectives and preferences.
• Successful patient safety requires a comprehensive, patient-informed agenda.

Conclusions:

• Active patient engagement is essential for effective patient safety.
• Future safety programs must integrate patient experiences and preferences.
• Investment in patient-centered safety strategies and devices is crucial.