Language
English
Publication Date
1-1-2026
Journal
Health Affairs Scholar
DOI
10.1093/haschl/qxag008
PMID
41613616
PMCID
PMC12849810
PubMedCentral® Posted Date
1-14-2026
PubMedCentral® Full Text Version
Post-print
Abstract
There have been notable improvements in patient safety in recent years; however, significant challenges remain in reducing the incidence of preventable patient harm. Supporting patient safety efforts is increasingly important given increasing complexity of care and changing health needs, especially with aging populations. Emerging technologies and capabilities open new possibilities to address longstanding patient safety problems. For example, predictive analytics to support provider decision-making, increased patient interest in engagement in their care, and artificial intelligence provide opportunities to further reduce harm. Many of these examples support a more proactive approach to patient safety by focusing on anticipating, predicting, and preventing patient harm; however, implementation is essential to avoid unintended consequences. Additionally, health care organizations oftentimes cannot accomplish this work on their own and strategic partnerships are crucial for continued improvement. This paper proposes a strategic focus for health care leaders as they build comprehensive plans to prevent harm from adverse events. Drawing on international case examples from the Future of Health Community, it outlines actionable approaches to partnerships that can be adapted and implemented across diverse health care organizations.
Keywords
patient safety, preventable harm, technology and digital health, patient and caregiver engagement
Published Open-Access
yes
Recommended Citation
Bonesteel, Rachel; Saunders, Robert; McBride, Tilithia; et al., "Partnerships to Advance Patient Safety and Address Preventable Harm: Case Studies From International Health Care Leaders" (2026). Faculty, Staff and Students Publications. 8516.
https://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/baylor_docs/8516