Day two of the 11th Annual World Patient Safety, Science & Technology Summit, hosted by the Patient Safety Movement Foundation (PSMF) at UC Irvine, centred on the imperative of collaboration in advancing patient safety. The event emphasised how collective efforts among stakeholders are vital to preventing medical errors and accelerating the development of technologies that enhance patient care.
Joe Kiani, Founder of PSMF, delivered an inspiring keynote, stressing the necessity for a united approach. “The healthcare landscape is evolving swiftly, and it is crucial that everyone, including patients and their families, plays an active role in this transformation. Our goal is to achieve zero preventable harm, and this requires a collaborative network where we can share challenges and solutions. I encourage everyone to join our Patient Safety Leadership Association to contribute to this mission.”
Dr. Mike Durkin, Chair of the PSMF Board and former National Director of Patient Safety for the NHS, highlighted the role of patient and family involvement in driving systemic improvements. “The advancement of patient safety relies heavily on the proactive involvement of patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. Collaboration is essential to guarantee that healthcare systems operate with transparency, fairness, and inclusivity,” he emphasised.
Dr. Sanaz Massoumi, PSMF’s Chief Operating Officer, discussed the importance of creating a culture that prioritises safety. Integrating patient safety into every facet of healthcare necessitates a holistic strategy. It involves proactive risk assessment and decision-making processes that place patient well-being at the forefront,” she explained. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization, highlighted the grave effects of violence on healthcare professionals. In a recorded message, he highlighted the alarming frequency of attacks on healthcare facilities and personnel. “Since 2018, over 7,000 attacks have occurred, resulting in more than 2,200 deaths. Protecting health workers and facilities, even in conflict zones, is crucial,” he urged.
The Rt Hon Jeremy Hunt MP recounted his collaboration with Joe Kiani and the PSMF to advocate for World Patient Safety Day on September 17. “My journey began after learning about families impacted by preventable medical errors,” he shared. This experience made it clear that change was needed,” he recalled.
Dr. John Wyte, Chief Medical Officer at WebMD, explored the influence of misinformation and emerging technologies on patient safety. “With the increasing reliance on internet searches and digital health tools, addressing misinformation and leveraging new technologies is essential for enhancing patient safety,” he noted.
Dr. Michael Stamos, Dean of UC Irvine School of Medicine, discussed the institution’s commitment to fostering a culture of safety and improving patient outcomes. “Our leadership and structural framework are designed to support an environment that prioritises patient safety and quality care,” he stated.
Amy Ashcraft from the US Department of Health and Human Services emphasized the critical role of transparency and data tracking in enhancing patient safety. “The initiatives by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality and the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services are crucial for safeguarding patients through robust data management,” she stated.
Dr. Daniel Cole from the American Board of Anesthesiology addressed how technologies like remote monitoring and data analytics are reshaping perioperative care.
Dr. Michael Ramsay, CEO of PSMF, emphasised the transformative potential of advanced technologies such as AI and telehealth. “We are at a critical juncture where these innovations can profoundly improve patient safety. Collaborative efforts and data sharing are essential to realising this potential,” he concluded. The foundation collaborates globally to develop actionable practices, promote data transparency, and enhance patient care through innovative technologies and partnerships.