Patients' Perspective of Medication Safety in Hungary: A Netnography-Based Mixed-Method Content Analysis

Background/Objectives: Medication-related safety incidents rank among the most prevalent patient safety concerns globally. In addition to healthcare professionals, patients also play a vital role in ensuring safe medication practices. To effectively engage them, it is essential to gain a deeper understanding of their knowledge and perspectives. Methods: We conducted a netnography-based mixed-method content analysis study within the Hungarian online environment to identify key patient concerns. A total of 5174 relevant comments and discussions were analyzed (from 14 August 2020 to 14 August 2023), utilizing a medication safety framework based on Glies et al. The analysis was confined to publicly accessible online content related to oral medications and did not include demographic information about commenters. Results: The framework was applicable, though its representation was uneven. Patients predominantly focused on issues related to Access to services and Communication. Online discussions were primarily dominated by patients, with contributions from relatives and healthcare professionals being comparatively limited. The majority of concerns pertained to prescription medications, particularly in the fields of gynecology, internal medicine, and gastroenterology. ATC codes G and A were most frequently referenced, corresponding to the healthcare domains discussed. Conclusions: Initiatives aimed at enhancing medication safety should prioritize improving access and communication. Patients must be empowered as active agents in safety efforts; they can aid in preventing errors, reporting incidents, and offering feedback. Their engagement supports organizational learning and promotes safer healthcare delivery.