World Patient Safety Day 2024: Get it right, make it safe!
World Patient Safety Day 2024
At Shropdoc we are reminded daily of the critical role we play in the lives of the community across Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin, and Powys.
Our work as a not-for-profit, out-of-hours urgent care service is more than just providing medical care; it’s about ensuring that every interaction is grounded in the highest standards of patient safety.
This year, World Patient Safety Day, observed on September 17th, focuses on ‘improving diagnosis for patient safety’ and ‘get it right, make it safe’. This theme aligns with our values at Shropdoc: Community, Kindness, Integrity, Quality, and Development, and we are emphasising the pivotal role of correct and timely diagnosis in improving patient safety today through an interactive online quiz for Shropdoc staff.
Patient safety matters
Patient safety is not just a goal - it’s a fundamental part of everything we do. Every time you speak to a nurse or GP from Shropdoc, or visit one of our primary care centres, you place your trust in us. We take this trust seriously, knowing our actions can directly impact your health and wellbeing.
Errors in diagnosis can lead to delays in treatment and unnecessary anxiety which is why we are committed to ongoing education and training and maintaining a culture of safety and vigilance in all our operations.
Our commitment to improving diagnosis
To align with this year’s World Patient Safety Day theme, we are actively working on several fronts:
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Continuous professional development: Our team regularly takes part in training sessions and development.
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Use of technology: We are utilising technology within our organisation to benefit both our teams and the patients we support.
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Patient-centred approach: We encourage open communication with our patients. By listening to your concerns and involving you in the diagnostic process, we aim to minimise the chances of misdiagnosis. Your input is invaluable, and together, we can achieve better health outcomes.
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Review and reflection: After each patient interaction, we take the time to encourage feedback and review our processes to help identify areas for improvement and implement changes that can enhance patient safety.
How you can help
Patient safety is a shared responsibility. Here’s how you can contribute:
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Be open: Share all relevant symptoms and concerns with our team. Even details that seem minor to you could be important.
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Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to ask us questions. We’re here to ensure you fully understand your health situation and the way forward.
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Follow up: If your symptoms persist or change, call us back or seek help from your GP who will have the notes we’ve written about our contact with you.