An interdisciplinary program for emerging leaders in patient safety

Having previously shown that an interprofessional immersive course, AELPS (Academy for Emerging Leaders in Patient Safety) can change the way young clinicians think about patient safety, we surveyed them between 1 and 5 years later to determine its longer-term influence on careers, relationships with colleagues and with patients.

All alumni from 2016 to 2019 (n = 116) were invited to complete a survey on the usefulness of their AELPS experience in: obtaining their current position; doing patient safety projects; understanding and working with patients; improving communication skills; breaking down hierarchies; networking; mentoring and using new skills in the workplace. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis.

Response rate was 56%. Over 85% reported ongoing improvement in medication safety knowledge, communication with patients, use of graded assertiveness, communicating more effectively with colleagues, seeking views of their patients about treatment options and seeing things from the patient perspective. Sixty seven per cent agreed that AELPS helped them in their career choice and 57% agreed it had helped them obtain their current position. Skills transferred to the workplace included ability to make improvements, establish education initiatives and model patient-centred care. Stumbling blocks included a hierarchal culture and lack of accountability for patient safety practices in some hospitals.

An intensive, interdisciplinary program on patient safety can provide future health leaders with ongoing tools to improve communication, understand the patient view and speak up on behalf of the patient, all factors that contribute to improving safety of patients.