Biggest Issues Facing Patient Safety

Join HDM and following list of experts as they discuss critical factors influencing patient safety in healthcare.  

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• • Dr. Tim McDonald, Chief Patient Safety and Risk Officer, RLDatix, 
• • Nicole Kerkenbush, Chief Nursing and Performance Officer, Monument Health 
• • Patricia McGaffigan, IHI Vice President, Safety; and Certification Board for Professionals in Patient Safety President
• • Kenneth R. Deans, President and CEO, Health Sciences South Carolina
• • Mitchell Josephson, CEO, Health Data Management
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They express concern over the shift in priorities from safety as a core purpose to something that is occasionally prioritized or considered a project. Panelists agree that constant daily work and focus are necessary to maintain safety as a system property. 

Workforce issues, including burnout and staff turnover, are also identified as significant factors impacting patient safety. Emotional exhaustion in care teams, which is at its highest level ever, can lead to less safe units and early retirements, exacerbating the problem. 

Fear and lack of education among both care providers and patients present barriers to patient safety. The panelists emphasize the importance of creating a culture where patients, family members, and care providers feel comfortable speaking up and asking questions. Addressing these concerns requires more than hiring additional staff or implementing technology; it involves addressing cultural aspects within the healthcare community and society at large. 

Lastly, the panel highlights the importance of clear communication in ensuring patient safety. They stress the need for healthcare professionals to use plain language that patients can understand, helping them feel more informed and less apprehensive about asking questions. By fostering a culture of open communication and prioritizing safety in daily operations, the panelists believe that improvements in patient safety can be achieved.