NHS England has unveiled a new framework dedicated to integrating patients more deeply into efforts to enhance safety across the health service. The initiative, titled 'A framework for involving patients in patient safety', seeks to transform the traditional approach to safety by positioning patients and their families as essential partners rather than passive recipients of care.
The framework emphasises that patients, their families, and carers possess unique insights into their care journeys, which can be invaluable in identifying risks, preventing harm, and driving continuous improvement. It outlines a structured approach for NHS organisations to embed patient involvement in various aspects of safety, from co-designing services and contributing to investigations to providing feedback on their experiences.
A core principle of the new guidance is to foster a 'just culture' where patients feel safe and empowered to speak up about concerns without fear. This includes encouraging open communication about incidents, ensuring that patient voices are heard during safety investigations, and actively learning from both positive and negative patient experiences to prevent future harm. The document provides practical examples and tools for health professionals to facilitate meaningful engagement.
The move comes as the NHS continues its commitment to improving patient safety, an area that remains a critical focus. According to NHS Resolution's annual report 2022/23, the total cost of harm to patients in 2022/23 was estimated at over £13 billion, underscoring the significant human and financial impact of safety incidents. By involving patients more directly, the framework aims to reduce these incidents and improve the overall quality of care.
The framework also aligns with broader NHS objectives to make the health service more person-centred, recognising that effective healthcare relies on a collaborative approach between patients and providers. It is expected to encourage NHS trusts, primary care networks, and other healthcare providers to review and strengthen their current patient involvement strategies, ultimately leading to safer and more effective care for all.