Healthcare Policy on Patient Safety Events

Study Notes

Purpose of the Policy

The policy outlines standardized definitions, reporting, investigation, and improvement processes for patient safety events affecting patients, families, and healthcare workers.
The policy is based on the Mediclinic Group Framework for Event Management published in March 2023.

Policy Contents

Includes new definitions of events, including an algorithm for categorizing event type, severity of harm, and serious reportable events (including never events).
Defines roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders.
Outlines reporting, investigation, and notification/escalation processes for safety events.
Specifies actions following safety events with severe harm or death or a Serious Reportable Event.
Establishes event 'alert' email groups and escalation flows with specific timeframes for completing safety event reports and investigations.
Emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement activities driven by analyses of safety events, aiming to improve patient safety and prevent harm.
Outlines processes for reporting matters to the Legal Department and details further interactions and functions of the Legal Department.
Specifies actions to be taken in cases of maternal and neonatal deaths.

Policy Statement

Mediclinic Southern Africa (MCSA) prioritizes the safety and well-being of patients, employees, other healthcare workers, visitors, and contractors.
If any of these individuals experience harm or near-miss incidents during hospitalization or on MCSA premises, investigations are mandatory.
Findings from investigations should be shared and actions taken at the hospital level to prevent recurrence.
Continuous Improvement initiatives should be developed and disseminated throughout the company based on learnings from investigations.
The Legal Department must be consulted on matters involving harm or potential harm to patients and/or visitors for advice on further management.

Description

This quiz explores the key components of a policy aimed at standardizing the definitions and processes for managing patient safety events. Based on the Mediclinic Group Framework, it highlights roles, reporting structures, and the importance of continuous improvement in patient safety management. Test your understanding of the definitions, event categorization, and stakeholder responsibilities outlined in this policy.