First World Patient Safety Day observed by WHO on September 17

The first World Patient Safety Day was observed by World Health Organisation (WHO) on September 17. This day launched by WHO as global campaign ‘Medication without Harm’. It aims to create awareness around patient safety and urge people to show commitment to making healthcare safer. The theme for World Patient Safety Day 2019 is ‘Patient Safety: a global health priority’ and slogan is ‘Speak up for patient safety’.

Background

The establishment of World Patient Safety Day (to be marked annually on September 17) was endorsed by WHO member states from all 194 countries on May 24, 2019 and was officially included on WHO list of health dates. The purpose of observance this Day is to promote patient safety by increasing public awareness and engagement, enhancing global understanding and working towards global solidarity and action.  It also marks coming together of all health stakeholders from across the world for patients including care givers, patients’ groups, civil society organisations and other relevant stakeholders.

Month: Current Affairs - September, 2019