QUEZON CITY (PIA) — The Philippines reaffirmed its dedication to advancing patient safety as it hosted the 7th Global Ministerial Summit on Patient Safety at the Asian Development Bank (ADB) Headquarters on April 3–4.
Led by the Department of Health (DOH), the summit gathered global healthcare leaders to discuss best practices, challenges, and policy innovations in ensuring patient well-being.
Building on previous ministerial summits, this year’s theme, “Weaving Strengths for the Future of Patient Safety Throughout the Healthcare Continuum,” resonates deeply with the country’s vision of a healthcare system that prioritizes patient well-being at every stage of care.
Health Secretary Ted Herbosa eloquently compared patient safety to the traditional banig (woven mat), emphasizing that, like the interwoven strands of grass and reed, effective patient care requires collaboration among governments, institutions, healthcare workers, and communities.
“In many Filipino homes, the banig holds deep cultural meaning… In the very same way, patient safety is not the work of one sector alone. It is a collective endeavor,” he stated.
This sentiment underscores the importance of holistic healthcare that extends beyond hospital walls. “Patient safety is not just about protocols within hospital walls. It extends far beyond—reaching into our communities… Pharmacies in rural towns, health centers in remote areas, and even in the hands of caregivers at home,” Herbosa explained.
The summit served as a platform to showcase the Philippines’ progress in institutionalizing patient safety. The country has implemented Administrative Order 2020-0007, establishing a national policy on patient safety in healthcare facilities and setting the groundwork for a culture of safety.
Herbosa highlighted several key initiatives, including:
- The establishment of the National Patient Safety Committee to oversee healthcare safety policies.
- The designation of patient safety officers in health facilities.
- Broader access to training programs for healthcare workers.
- Strengthened clinical protocols and improved data systems to guide evidence-based decision-making.
These initiatives align with the Universal Health Care Act and DOH’s 8-Point Action Agenda, which prioritizes “Ligtas, de Kalidad, at Mapagkalingang Serbisyo”—safe, quality, and compassionate care for every Filipino.
Among the highlighted topics at the summit were the importance of patient engagement, leveraging AI for patient safety, and the economics of diagnostic safety. These discussions will be woven into a landmark policy document, which will serve as a global guide for improving patient safety standards.
By hosting this prestigious summit, the Philippines has reinforced its position as a leader in global healthcare policy, benefiting not only medical professionals but also millions of Filipinos who rely on safer, more efficient healthcare services.
“As we move forward, may we hold fast to the vision of a healthcare system that, like the banig, is strong, interconnected, and grounded in the well-being of every individual it serves,” Herbosa concluded.
With a steadfast commitment to patient safety, the Philippines is leading the charge in fostering a healthcare system where, as Herbosa aptly put it, “Bawat buhay, mahalaga”—every life is precious. (AVS / PIA-NCR)
