375th MDG prescribes partnership for Patient Safety Awareness Week Published March 4, 2009 By Patty Palmer 375th MDG Patient Safety SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- In a concerted, nationwide effort to encourage and strengthen collaboration between patients, families and their healthcare providers -- and create a powerful team for improved patient safety - the 375th Medical Group is joining other leading healthcare organizations in celebrating Patient Safety Awareness Week, Sunday through March 14. Sponsored by the National Patient Safety Foundation, this year's Patient Safety Awareness Week theme is "A Prescription for Patient Safety: One Partnership, One Team." The National Patient Safety Foundation is an independent not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization that has been diligently pursuing its mission - to improve the safety of patients -- since its founding in 1997. The 375th MDG, a member of the National Patient Safety Foundation's Stand Up for Patient Safety Program, will engage staff, patients and community by emphasizing the critical need for partnership and participation in the drive for a safer healthcare system. Programs highlighting new methods for improving the information exchange that occurs during patient/provider encounters will be launched and promoted during the course of the week. "Clear and open communication between patient and provider is at the very core of quality care, and is a vital component in keeping patients safe during their journey through the healthcare system," stated Diane Pinakiewicz, National Patient Safety Foundation president. An important element of Patient Safety Awareness Week in 2009 is the introduction of the Universal Patient Compact, which builds on the principles contained in the Patient Bill of Rights to establish a mutual covenant between healthcare providers and their patients. While the Bill of Rights focuses on the patient perspective, the Compact is intended to create a clear understanding between the patient and the entire healthcare team about how they will work together. Created by the National Patient Safety Foundation, the Compact speaks to the very essence of what should be expected from patients and providers alike. The Compact, although not a legal document, presents the principles that are integral to providing a care process that is truly patient and family-centered and respects the rights of patients. "True partnering and strengthened relationships are the keys to delivering safe and high quality care. We are optimistic and confident that the innovative and inclusive Universal Patient Compact will encourage adoption of this essential mindset," said Ms. Pinakiewicz. To learn more about how to ensure healthcare safety for you and your family, visit the 375th MDG during Patient Safety Awareness Week. Additional information on Patient Safety Awareness Week and the Universal Patient Compact is available at www.npsf.org.