Dr. Francis Ohanyido, director-general of the West African Institute of Public Health (WAIPH) has said that there are no minor issues in patient safety and wellbeing. “It is crucial to continously raise awareness about patient safety and the significance of responsive healthcare systems, especially for those at the bottom of the social pyramid, inclusive of Africa, Health, news, nigeria Dr. Francis Ohanyido, director-general of the West African Institute of Public Health (WAIPH) has said that there are no minor issues in patient safety and wellbeing.
“It is crucial to continously raise awareness about patient safety and the significance of responsive healthcare systems, especially for those at the bottom of the social pyramid, inclusive of underserved and hard-to-reach communities,” He said.
The World Patient Safety Day is observed on September 17, every year. This year’s theme, “Engaging patients for patient safety,” underscores the vital role that patients play in ensuring their own safety within healthcare settings.
It also prods us to realize that there is a significant role of health literacy, whether at the individual, family or community level, to elevate the engagement to a partnership- defined process between a provider and the patient.
The World Health Organization said evidence shows that when patients are treated as partners in their care, significant gains are made in safety, patient satisfaction and health outcomes.
Ohanyido pointed out that this an important day and it is essential to recognize that issues or factors that are sometimes not given priority, are equally important in the journey to entrench a patient safety culture.
“Issues such as poor access to clean water at primary healthcare facilities in low- and medium-income countries, can have a profound impact on patient safety and overall wellbeing,” he said.
Ohanyido emphasises that patient safety is not a privilege but a fundamental human right. He applauds the ongoing efforts of the Government of Nigeria through its Federal Ministry of Health in developing a National Patient Safety and Care Quality Policy and Implementation Strategy. Such initiatives are crucial steps toward improving the quality of healthcare services, particularly at the grassroots level.
“Scholarly articles have consistently highlighted the intersection between patient safety and staff well-being, emphasising the need for a holistic approach to healthcare. Burnout and poor well-being among healthcare staff have been associated with adverse patient safety outcomes, making it imperative to prioritize the welfare of those on the frontlines of healthcare delivery.
“As we commemorate World Patient Safety Day, let us reflect on the critical importance of responsive healthcare systems, the active involvement of patients, and the well-being of healthcare staff.
Ohanyido encourages healthcare institutions, policymakers, and the public to engage in discussions and actions that promote patient safety and ensure that no one is left behind in our pursuit of quality healthcare.