Quality of care and patient safety: the role of patients and families

ABSTRACT This essay sought to discuss the role of patients and families in quality of care and patient safety. Traditionally, the role of health professionals – especially physicians – has been predominant in discussing and defining what constitutes high-quality health care. However, other actors have been recognized in the contemporary debate on the quality of care and, in particular, patient safety and centrality of care. The patient’s role in the quality of care and even their protagonism in identifying the main problems in the provision of care and how to contribute to safer care are highlighted. Initially, discusses the role of patients and relatives in the quality of care and patient safety. Then, the factors that influence and hinder their participation are discussed. Finally, strategies for increasing patient participation are proposed. Patients and families can play an essential role in improving the quality of health care and patient safety. However, they must be actively involved in making this happen, with their contributions considered in an environment favorable to a just safety culture.