This theme is a powerful reminder that patient safety is not confined to a single appointment, hospital stay or treatment decision. For people living with conditions such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes and chronic respiratory disease, safe care is shaped over time, through every conversation, handover, medicine change, test result and follow-up.

The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care works with consumers, healthcare professionals, health services and policy makers to support safe and high-quality care across Australia.

This work includes national standards and guidance on communication, transitions of care, medicines safety and partnering with patients, families and carers. These areas are particularly important for people with long-term conditions who often receive care from multiple healthcare professionals across different services and settings.

This complexity can increase the risk of harm. Information can be missed, changes to medicines may not be clearly explained, symptoms or test results may not be followed up, and people may not be supported to understand and participate in decisions about their care.

World Patient Safety Day is an opportunity for all healthcare professionals to reflect on the everyday actions that help make health care safer. Prioritising clear communication, culturally safe care, shared decision-making and reliable follow-up with patients, families and carers are all essential. This includes taking the time to ask what matters to each person, checking that they understand their care plan, confirming changes to their medicines, and ensuring they know who to contact if their condition changes.

These may seem like small actions, but they are fundamental to safe, person-centred practice. They help prevent harm, build trust and support people to manage their health with confidence.

The Australian Charter of Healthcare Rights reminds us that every person has the right to safe, respectful and informed care, and to be a partner in decisions about their health. On World Patient Safety Day, I encourage every healthcare professional to consider one action they can take to strengthen safety for people living with long-term conditions.

Thank you for your continued commitment to improving the safety and quality of health care in Australia.

Yours sincerely,
 

Conjoint Professor Anne Duggan
Chief Executive Officer

Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care