Editorial: having a patient in the room changes the discussion (5 October 2021)

Summary

This editorial in the Journal of Patient Safety & Risk Management discusses the significant role patients and their families can have in improving patient safety. The author argues that having a patient present shifts the conversation to the patient perspective, results in a kinder and more respectful tone and promotes a greater urgency to find solutions. He describes patient engagement and empowerment as "perhaps the most powerful tool to improve patient safety" and discusses the significance of the World Health Organization's Patients for Patient Safety program (PFPS).