[Patient perceptions on healthcare safety]

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Patient Safety Research
• Qualitative Health Research

Context:

• Growing political and academic interest in patient safety.
• Limited research incorporating public perspectives on healthcare safety.
• Focus on patient and public involvement in healthcare policy.

Purpose:

• To explore the public's perception of patient safety in healthcare.
• To understand patient expectations regarding error management and communication.
• To identify barriers and facilitators for public participation in safety policies.

Summary:

• Patient safety is perceived by the public as encompassing trust, communication, information, and participation, not just absence of error.
• An apologetic attitude from healthcare professionals is vital in resolving adverse events.
• While protocols and notification systems are valued, implementation challenges exist; patients desire improved communication skills and greater involvement in their care and safety policies.

Impact:

• Highlights the need to incorporate patient and public perspectives into patient safety initiatives.
• Suggests a paradigm shift from a blame culture to a confidence culture in healthcare.
• Informs policy development for more effective patient engagement in healthcare safety.