Online Reporter
Tanaka Nkala, Chrionicle Reporter
THE United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH) yesterday commemorated the belated World Patient Safety Day with renewed calls for health workers to prioritise patient safety.
Bulawayo Provincial Medical Director, Dr Maphios Siamuchembu, who was guest of honour, said patient safety must remain at the centre of the country’s health service delivery, particularly for newborns and children who are the most vulnerable.
“As we celebrate this day, we recognise the tireless efforts of healthcare workers, policymakers and families dedicated to providing safe and quality care to children and newborns,” he said.
“However, there is still much work to be done as we strive to build a stronger culture of safety within our healthcare system.”
Dr Siamuchembu warned that millions of children worldwide continue to suffer preventable harm due to gaps in healthcare safety, urging collective, sustained action to close the gaps.
Paediatric specialist consultant, Dr Nyashadzashe Chasauka, echoed the call for vigilance and child-centred approaches in clinical settings.
“A single safety incident can have far-reaching consequences for a child’s health and development,” he said, stressing the need for tailored safeguards at every level of care.
This year’s commemorations were held under the theme: “Safe care for every newborn and every child.”
As part of the event, UBH partner, Vision Valley donated hampers to three families. One of the beneficiaries, Ms Rachel, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the hospital staff.
“God uses doctors and nurses as his servants to save people, and I will forever be grateful for the love and support UBH showed me and my child,” she said.
In recognition of excellence within the institution, UBH also awarded prizes to wards that demonstrated outstanding performance and cleanliness. The private ward, casualty ward, maternity ward and labour ward were among those honoured.
World Patient Safety Day is marked annually on September 17 to raise global awareness about patient safety and to encourage countries and international partners to take united action in reducing preventable patient harm.
