KUWAIT: Minister of Health Dr Ahmad Al-Awadhi emphasized that patient safety forms the cornerstone of all healthcare services, with quality of care remaining an unwavering standard. Speaking at a Ministry event marking World Patient Safety Day, observed annually on September 17, Dr Al-Awadhi described human health as a trust and an inalienable right that allows no negligence or delay.
This year’s event was held under the slogan, “Safe Care for Every Newborn and Every Child,” highlighting the vulnerability of children in healthcare. Dr Al-Awadhi noted that World Health Organization reports confirm that strengthening safety systems and improving care quality have saved millions of lives over the past two decades, demonstrating that investments in safety programs directly benefit public health. He explained that the Ministry is celebrating World Patient Safety Day with an integrated plan featuring qualitative initiatives and guidelines with clear performance indicators. The Safety Star Award, celebrated by the Ministry for the eleventh consecutive year, serves as an incentive to honor excellence in patient safety.
Dr Al-Awadhi highlighted Kuwait’s pioneering role in adopting quality and patient safety programs since the early 2000s, including the establishment of a dedicated department for quality and accreditation and the enhancement of safety systems across public and private healthcare facilities. He added that Kuwait contributed to the formulation of the Nine Safety Solutions with international experts and implemented the Pharmacovigilance Program to ensure the safety of medicines and biological preparations. Health personnel are also required to complete specialized training in cardiac resuscitation and continuous medical education.
The Minister stressed that the Medical Professions Law No 70 of 2020 safeguards the rights of both patients and practitioners while ensuring comprehensive and safe healthcare in line with international standards. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to ongoing quality improvement programs and expressed appreciation for health sector workers’ efforts in fostering a culture of safety and elevating the quality of healthcare services. During the event, Dr Al-Awadhi honored the winners of the Safety Star Award 2025, along with distinguished committees of the Policies and Procedures Program in Primary Care and outstanding nurses recognized for their contribution to quality care. — KUNA
