KUALA LUMPUR, May 28 (Bernama) — The 25th of May 2019 was a historical moment for Patient Safety as the resolution on “Global Action on Patient Safety” was adopted during the World Health Organization’s 72nd World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland. The resolution urged member countries to recognise patient safety as a key health priority and take concerted efforts to reduce patient harm in the healthcare setting. It also recognises that patient safety is a critical element of Universal Health Coverage so that the public can be assured that healthcare systems are safe.
Member countries must also strengthen the safety aspect of their healthcare systems using science where evidence and knowledge generated from research need to be incorporated into plans, policies and practices. The Ministry of Health Malaysia has consistently worked hand in hand with other public organisations, the private sector and NGOs to improve Patient Safety in this country through various strategies such as promotion and education, establishing patient safety policies, developing safe design/environment, use of safe treatment, setting safety standards, monitoring and research. The ministry will continue to foster collaborative action nationally and globally to further strengthen patient safety.