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20th MDG recognizes Patient Safety Awareness Week

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Kathryn R.C. Reaves
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  
The 20th Medical Group recognized Patient Safety Awareness Week by distributing information to staff and patients regarding safety practices, March 12-18.

Distributed information promoted the idea that healthcare providers, staff, patients, and family members all play an important role in the safety of patients by effectively communicating about treatments and medications.

Without proper precautions from all parties, patients could face the deadly risk of receiving the wrong medication or treatment, and physicians could face the risk of becoming sick from patients or causing themselves physical harm.

“(During the week,) we are able to project out to everyone, not only staff members, but also to our patients, about patient safety,” said Jeff White, 20th Medical Group patient safety program manager. “We’re trying to share that we want you to speak up, we want you to ask questions.”

When individuals ask questions about treatments or their health, they improve their understanding and help care providers ensure patients are receiving proper care, said White.

During the week, Col. Brian Wyrick, 20th MDG Commander, expressed his appreciation for the work all 20th MDG Airmen do on a regular basis to protect the health of patients and provide the best care possible.

Although Patient Safety Awareness Week only comes once a year, 20th MDG Airmen practice safety precautions every day to protect the health of service members, retirees and their families.