National Patient Safety Awareness Week

National Patient Safety Awareness Week to be observed March 6-12, 2005, is a national education and awareness-building campaign for improving patient safety at the local level. The week centers on educating patients on how to become involved in their health care to prevent medical errors, and work with treatment facilities to build partnerships with their patient community.

Air Force medics are using the week, to inform patients what is being done to ensure they are safe and how they can become more involved in their own health care, said Ellen Kasha, a 5th Medical Group patient safety programs assistant.

David Lindee, 5th MDG quality services chief says patients can easily be involved in their own health care by asking as many questions as possible of doctors, clinic nurses and the pharmacy. Patients should work with their doctors and participate in all decisions about their treatment and should not be afraid to ask questions. The more information patients have about their health care, the better decisions they can make about what is best for them.They should voice their concerns; patients should also be encouraged to know what type and how much medication they are required to take, Mr. Lindee said, and let their doctor know about any over-the-counter medications they take, including vitamins and herbal supplements. Keeping records about your medical history and sharing up-to-date details with your medical team are good ways to prevent errors in your health care.

Ongoing input from patients and their families health care providers gives a better understanding of what is effective for the health-care system,” Mr. Lindee said. “The single most important way you can prevent errors in your health care is to be an active member in your health-care team.”

For more information, people can contact their local medical facilities.