The Ministry of Health has announced plans to include patient representatives in the National Patient Safety Committee to enhance patient safety. The Ministry is currently in the process of establishing this committee within the year.
This committee will focus on addressing patient concerns and proactively preventing healthcare risks. Health Ministry's Commissioner of Quality Assurance, Thasleema Usman noted that the committee will discuss various challenges faced by patients and ensure their representation.
In the Maldives, Quality Improvement Departments have been set up in tertiary healthcare facilities to foster collaboration with patients. The Ministry plans to collaborate with these departments as part of the national committee. To facilitate this initiative, the Ministry is training personnel to work closely with patients with the aim to create a health system where healthcare workers can acknowledge and address mistakes when they occur. This approach aligns with global practices aimed at strengthening healthcare systems.
The Ministry notes that it is committed to improving the overall situation, recognizing that many areas require enhancement to deliver safe and high-quality services.