March 12-16 National Patient Safety Awareness Week Published March 12, 2007 By from the 27th Medical Group CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- The 27th Medical Group is observing National Patient Safety Awareness Week though March 16. Healthcare organizations across the country are participating in events to promote patient safety. Educational activities will center on educating patients on how to become involved in their own health care, as well as working with healthcare facilities to build partnerships with their patient community. According to the National Patient Safety Foundation Web site at www.npsf.org the theme for National Patient Safety Awareness Week is "Patient Safety - A Road Taken Together." Patients and Families members are encouraged to learn how to become more involved in their healthcare. - Rid medicine cabinets of old or expired medications. - Carry the names of prescription and over the counter medications - including dosage - as well as any allergies. - Carry the names and numbers of healthcare providers and pharmacies. - Identify an advocate - either a family member or a friend- who can accompany you and ask questions on your behalf. -Talk with your family or other close individuals about what your preferences are for your healthcare, in case you are unable to speak for yourself. Communicate and partner with your providers -Ask your hospital or healthcare professional about patient safety and how communication and partnership can improve. - Communicate with your provider about your healthcare safety concerns. -Let your healthcare provider know with whom they should speak with in the case that you are unable to speak for yourself. While our supply lasts, the 27th Med. Grp. will provide patients with: - Pocket-sized medication journals; - Plastic 7-day pill reminder containers; - Pediatric dosing spoons and/or; - Poison control center information