Statement on Action Alliance to Advance Patient Safety

This month, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced the launch of the National Healthcare System Action Alliance (Action Alliance) to Advance Patient Safety in partnership with healthcare systems, federal agencies, patients, and other stakeholders. Jonathan B. Perlin, MD, PhD, MSHA, MACP, FACMI, President and CEO of The Joint Commission, and Ana Pujols McKee, MD, FACP, Joint Commission’s Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer, Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer, along with leaders from healthcare and patient organizations, participated in an HHS listening session as part of the launch. During the listening session, many healthcare organizations urged the Action Alliance to address workforce shortages; workplace violence; and financial and regulatory burdens. Listening session participants also highlighted the need for improved data sharing.

 

The Action Alliance will begin by working with stakeholders to collect evidence-based approaches to improving patient and healthcare worker safety. HHS plans to release a Request for Information seeking public input on the Action Alliance agenda. The Joint Commission stands ready to work with its federal partners on this Action Alliance.