Message from the Minister of Health - Canadian Patient Safety Week - October 24 - 28, 2016

I am pleased to acknowledge Canadian Patient Safety Week, October 24 to October 28, 2016.

Canadian Patient Safety Week is a national, annual campaign to inspire improvements in patient safety and quality. Health care facilities and organizations across the country will be participating in events and activities to help increase awareness this week.

Many Canadians at some point or another will have a family member hospitalized, perhaps for an extended period of time. During these difficult times, families should not have to worry about whether or not their loved one is safe.

As a doctor, I know that the safety and quality of the care provided to patients is paramount, and that tremendous work has been done in Canada to create health care systems that deliver the safest care possible. But even with our excellent health care system, there is always room to improve.

To that end, the Government of Canada will continue to work with the Canadian Patient Safety Institute, along with other health organizations, leaders, and healthcare providers, to build and advance a safer health system for everyone.

I encourage all Canadians to learn more about this important issue during Canadian Patient Safety Week.

The Honourable Jane Philpott, P.C., M.P.
Minister of Health