Malawi has joined the global community in commemorating World Patient Safety Day, with the Ministry of Health and Sanitation calling for improved safety and quality of care for people living with non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

The day is being commemorated under the theme ‘Safe Care for Noncommunicable Diseases’ and the slogan ‘Safe Care for Life!’

In a press statement released for the commemoration, the Ministry says patient safety is critical in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and management of NCDs such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancers and chronic respiratory diseases.

The statement says safe patient care includes correct and timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment, safe use of medicines, accurate medical records, effective communication between healthcare workers and patients, timely referrals, continuity of care and proper follow-up.

Commenting on the commemoration, Malawi Health Equity Network (MHEN) Executive Director George Jobe said it is important that the government is joining the world in recognising patient safety, particularly because NCD care requires continuous support, starting from accurate diagnosis.

Jobe said patients sometimes visit health facilities only to be told that medicines are unavailable, despite requiring continuous access to medication for managing their conditions.

He also stressed the importance of accurate medical records and effective communication between healthcare workers, patients and guardians, saying poor communication can sometimes result in harm to patients.

Jobe has therefore encouraged patients, guardians, caregivers and communities to actively participate in their care and report whenever patient safety is compromised.

The Ministry has also called on healthcare workers to follow clinical guidelines, promote safe medication practices, maintain accurate records and involve patients in decisions concerning their care.

Tagamchira Meeklem Chiperesa – Staff Reporter, Blantyre