The Director-General of the West African Institute of Public Health (WAIPH),Dr. Francis Ohanyido,has said that there are no ‘Minor Issues’ in Patient Safety and Wellbeing.
He made this comment to mark World Patients Safety Day with the theme; “Engaging patients for patient safety,” an annual event observed worldwide on September 17th, serves as a crucial platform to raise
awareness about patient safety.
The significance of responsive healthcare systems, especially for those at
the bottom of the social pyramid, inclusive of underserved and hard-to-reach communities.
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 realise 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 patient.
As we commemorate this important day, it is essential to recognise that issues or factors are 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.
Dr. 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 prioritise 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. Dr. 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.